e-Learning Ecologies MOOC’s Updates
Ubiquitous learning: the need for faces
So technology is a neutral tool and not the peadagogy itself; one cannot help but ask 'What is the role of the teacher then, if not simply to be the aide managing a pre-formulated module?'
In this time of homeschooling, many teachers are throwing together resources which students may be able to access with listed websites, powerpoints (as proxy for teacher exposition and modelling). Some are available at timetabled moments, expecting students to conference call, in their uniforms, parents eating toast nearby, a colleague muting them as necessary. Students upload written work, which teachers mark and return. It's school, with its failings, but with a human face.
As a teacher coach, I have a persistent philosohpy that the best teachers are reading the room, they know their students and they note asides, make interventions and give hints based on an expertise for their subject and a passion for their students interests and engagement:
"Over the course of just one lesson a teacher might make dozens of similarly quick, real-time decisions designed to build their class’s understanding. They may not make the right decisions all the time, but it would at least seem worthwhile to think about what they are trying to achieve and the nature of their expertise."
Christodoulou, Daisy. Teachers vs Tech?: The case for an ed tech revolution (p. 151). OUP Oxford. Kindle Edition.
In my view learning is about relationship, so for the teacher to provide ubiuitous learning, "we've gotta reform the whole ball of wax, or none of it" [Gee J. P., Society or School: What Determines Educational Outcomes?]
I love this!
Last week I attended a faculty meeting over Zoom. We were all sitting comfortably in our different homes watching our boss describe how two of our colleagues have been tasked to create a complete online course including modules, videos, quizzes, exams, etc. Finally one colleague spoke up and said what the rest of us were thinking, So are we just graders now?
I think in an attempt to make the transition to remote learning as smooth as possible for the instructors, all that has made us good at our job has been stripped away.
This is why I'm taking this e-Learning ecologies course. I want to get my power back as a teacher.
I agree with your opinions, Suzanne. Technology could improve teaching and learning efficiency, but the core point is the educators who need to clarify the real needs of students, understand how to suitably deliver the knowledge to students. The role of educators likes - Mentor.