Thursday, 14 May 2009

Now That's what I'm talking about

I have recently linked to "Langwitches - The Magic of Learning Through Technology". Great site. The most recent post It's about reflecting and analysing our teaching practice, really hits the nail on the head when it comes to integrating ICT into our teaching practice. The fact that we use technology is not the issue. The fact that we are able to create engaging and rich learning opportunities which lead to meaningful learning using technology is the issue. Regardless of the tool, or the method, without reflection and analysis of our practice we may as well be using sticks and stones as teaching tools as opposed to ICT. A very clear idea of the learning outcomes is so important as this will impact on unit/lesson construction. The post shows the use of technology in 3 different ways but one way is clearly more engaging, personal and rich compared to the other two. The (now) old phrase "poor teaching + technology = expensive poor teaching" will always hold true. The New Zealand curriculum includes teaching as inquiry as a key component of effective pedagogy. It also includes eLearning as a key component of effective pedagogy. Teaching as inquiry is independent of the tool, while eLearning without reflective practice is a dead duck.

The Volcanics Community, as an eLearning community, I think, is only just realising this fact. It therefore begs the question why we should not just call ourselves a Learning Community, as teaching is not about technology, but about teaching and Learning.

1 comment:

Pete Hall said...



Nicely put mate, see Nick Rate's post and my comment there to see we're on the same page. His latest post with the video is a a powerful prompt for e-learning, but it definitely focuses more on the 'e' than the learning. I found it hard to imagine many of the examples shown that couldn't be done with some cardboard and a pair of snips. No global community with card and snips of course, but then it wasn't promoting that much as the point of difference. Dorothy is right when she comments on delivering good pedagogy.
I've yet to see an ad about the magic of good teaching.
I wonder what the intended audience is for these TV ad productions. Who do they perceive needs to make a change? Teachers, leaders or perhaps parents. I'm not sure.


Pete Hall

Summerland Primary