Ubiquitous Learning and Instructional Technologies MOOC’s Updates
A new setting for learning
Technological advances is also part of human evolution itself and, yes, some technologies and historical contexts have driven these changes more radically. It is impossible to talk about the impact of technology on learning without mentioning the emergency scenario caused by Covid pandemic.
However, beyond technology itself (and here I am looking at the resources and tools) what actually impacted educational institutions, and transformed learning in many ways, were the possibilities that this technology presented.
I mean, the tools of virtual meetings, of presentation, of content sharing, of collaborative activities,... they were already there! But the imminent need to create learning environment, keeping people apart and safe, boosted teachers and students to seek these resources and learn new ways to build new learning spaces!
Today, many professionals and students are appropriating technology in a much more autonomous and proactive way. Looking for new resources that support the learning paths with a more personalized but also collaborative approach.
This completely changed the way we think about education here in Brazil. With no doubt, it has taken a lot of people out of their comfort zone, but,
on the other hand, it exposed the huge social gap and deficiencies we have in public education. Many students have been out of school for months! And even though some communities have committed themselves to collaborate, donating equipment, most of these students are still suffering the impact of this gap.
Even so, I like to think that all technology, together with emerging contexts, are able to move - and change - systems and their patterns. They invite us to critical thinking and reading scenarios, fostering learning and innovation to create better realities. It´s a long path though...We urgently need to reduce the gap between the industrial model of education and the new ways of learning!
This project idea on computer-mediated learning environments is highly relevant and aligns with current trends in education.