Wednesday, 11 March 2015

Week 1 Reflection

Upon my first experiences with this course, I felt that it was going to be rather challenging and a huge learning curve. Up until this point I have only used my computer for completing assessments and research, thus the thought of starting a blog both excited and petrified me.

After working through the course material for this week, I have realised just how much the world of education has changed since I left school. The integration of technology into teaching seems to have escalated to the point, that without it, engaging Gen Z learners and effective teaching would be quite challenging and problematic. 

During my days at school, PowerPoints and old scratchy videotapes seemed to be the most common form of technology used – a lot has changed! What I've learned from this week’s course material is that technology in the classroom should only be used to enhance teaching and not to fill in time. Equally, if it is used in the appropriate way it can support and enhance the learning experiences of today’s learners.

What I find immensely interesting is how research about the connection between neuroscience and teaching is starting to take off. Judy Willis’ presentation on the ‘Science of Learning’ has given me a new outlook on what teaching should look like. No longer does it seem appropriate to teach the way our teachers taught us, but rather facilitate the learning of our students and equip them with the necessary skills set to succeed in the 21st century. The Sparks and Honey presentation really made this clear to me.

I am looking forward to working through this course and broadening my knowledge.




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