Still Pondering….

From further readings I have picked up a couple of points worth remembering. Again they are in no order and will feed into the over design process.  Interesting to note I am very much in the “Analyse”,”Information Gathering” or “Brainstorming Phase” (depending on which framework or methodology you subscribe to) of the Design process:

1.  Prefer a design where Instructions need to be customised rather than standardised

2. Model will not be a static model but a dynamic flow of activities – can be circular/spiral not linear. The learning activities can be organised in a spiral manner so that the learner continually builds  upon what they have learner already (Machowski N.D).

3. Interested in the concept of What? How? and Why?

3. Instructional design begins with the learner and the learner’s expeirence (Siemens 2002)

4. Designers need to understand the needs, desire and methods of potential users (Merholz cited in Nichani 2002).

5. Model is appearing to have a strong foundation in social constructivist theory. Adapted from  (Machowski N.D) the following applies.

This includes:

- emphasis placed on the learner rather than the teacher

- teacher or instructors role will be in scaffolding - but could play a dual role of peer/mentor?

- the learner interacts with learning objects and activities, gains an understanding of these and then comes to their own conceptualisation and solution to the problem. They will actively construct their own understanding 

- autonomy and inititave will be encourage and accepted   

- Learners willl be able to fit new information with what they already know about the problem/situation. They will be given the opportunity to build on prior knowledge

- Learners will be encouraged to come up with their own solutions, test ideas and hypothesise.

- Social negotiation, feedback and discussion will be encouraged as part of the process

- Learners will be able to test what they know about something with other learners in a safe environment

- Collaboration will also be encouraged which provides opportunities for negotiation, testing of knowledge and provide opportunities to improve work systems so it has real world application

what does learning mean to you?

Another semester is underway and firstly we have to clarify our views on learning. More often than not we come up with complex paradigms and explanations of the world. I came across this simple proverb which for me just about sums up the learning and teaching dynamic and something to keep in mind when designing  e-learning environments.

Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember; involve me and I’ll understand.” Chinese proverb

I also love the above pic which I am sure is happening in many classrooms around the world -the combination of technologies – the old and the new.  If you asks the students here – which is the most engaging? I wonder what they would say….they do seem pretty immersed in what they are doing.

So how do we incorprate sound pedagogy into e-learning design to develop engaging and authentic learning experiences and outcomes…..don’t have the answers yet but I am sure to find out during the semester. 

Happy for anyone to comment and provide a few pearls of wisdom to inspire me for the semester…..