Module 8 Activity 8 Managing online communication and collaboration

In light of the paradigm shift to ICT for learning, it is important that teachers craft learning experiences that involve a number of communication tools to include emails, blogs, instant messaging and cell phones.  Teachers have to be aufait with these tools to be able to effectively incorporate them into the classroom. In addition, schools that are desirous of using social networks for learning should have comprehensive e-safety policies to guide staff, students and parents on acceptable use of the network.

Module 8 Activity 7 – Tablet Devices in the Classroom

Tablet devices allow teachers to pursue individualized learning curriculum.  In addition, their use prevents classroom segregation and conflict since the students are free to pace themselves as they engage in tasks. The teacher will be free to work with different ability groups without moving too slowly for the quicker students or too fast for the slower students. The table initiative in Antigua and Barbuda with students in grades 8-11 receiving a tablet has made it possible for teachers to cater for the individual needs of their students. 

As a teacher, I will employ the following strategies in my class:

1.            Create standardized backgrounds for students’ tablets that include their names, ID numbers and other distinguishing information that can help in the location of misplaced devices.

2.            Set rules for the use and safety of the devices with the help of the students (especially if they are issued by the school).

3.            Make students work at their own pace.  The tablet provides an opportunity for differentiated instruction.

4.            Create enabling environments for use of the tablets by keeping the students engaged in inquiry based learning. This will prevent students from ‘straying’ from the learning.

5.            Select the appropriate apps needed for the learning in advance and ensure that only those selected are used for the activities.

Tablets are known to enable students to become producers and creators rather than passive consumers of knowledge. Students are ‘forced’ to employ 21st century skills such as critical thinking and problem solving when faced with inquiry-based and other forms of active learning in the classroom

Module 8 Activity 6 one-to-one learning

One to one computing learning is one in which each student works independently on a device at home or at school.  Ubiquitous learning is encouraged and there is an attempt to bridge the digital divide between those who can afford and those who cannot afford the devices.  In addition, differentiated learning is encouraged since students are able to learn at their own pace based on their needs.  The use of technology encourages students to become more engaged in the lesson and participate more in class.  On the down side, however, most one-to-one implementation strategies are based on the new tool as the focus of the program. Unless teachers break out of the limited vision that one-to-one computing is about the device, schools are doomed to waste their resources.

Technology will not be in every classroom and there are some principles learnt in the one to one vision that may be implemented in the classroom without technology. Chief among them is the need for teachers to continuously develop and be prepared at all times.  In this way, the learning will be focussed and the tasks meaningful. In addition, it is important that the students manipulate the learning as much as possible, using critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Module 8 Activity 5 Interactive Whiteboards

Interactive whiteboards are useful tools in a classroom with limited computers.  It is a great tool in a one computer classroom where the teacher can connect the computer to the board for projection so that a large number of students can view the lesson at the same time. The availability of presentation software will provide students with the opportunity to manipulate the learning and as a result keep them engaged. The effective use of the interactive whiteboard means that the teacher must employ the 5 p’s of success which are ‘proper planning prevents poor performance’ in order for the teaching learning process to be effective.

Module 8 Activity 4 The One Computer Classroom

The one computer in a classroom can be used by teachers to maximize learning if proper planning is done.  The fact that there is only one computer means that the teacher will have to find innovative ways of using the computer to enhance learning for all students. One great way of using the one computer in a classroom is to use it as a tool for instruction.  The teacher will project aspects of the lesson on the computer to a larger screen for the whole class to see. In cases where printing is possible, the teacher could make individual students print the work so that they can have their individual copies for the tasks at hand.

It may also be used as a resource tool for learners to prepare work and interact with the learning as well as a tool to improve social skills especially when learners are given tasks that they are required to do in groups. This fosters collaboration and sharing.

What transpires with the one computer in the classroom is dependent upon the teacher’s ability to plan and be innovated and creative to make teaching effective and learning improved.

Module 8 Activity 3 Learning Labs

Learning labs are usually associated with subject areas that specifically require the use of ICTs to negotiate the subject, for example, Information Technology. It is usually a room that has individual computer units set out presumably for individual use.  What appears to be missing is the fact that ICTs should be a part of the teaching/learning process and should form part of any subject curriculum with the ultimate aim of improving learning.  This means that computers should not only be restricted to learning labs but should be a part of every classroom so that they may be accessed readily by learners whenever the need arises.

If schools have learning labs as the only means of accessing ICTs, then careful management of same should be emphasized. The design and layout must carefully be considered so that collaboration among learners could be fostered. The lab should also be easily accessible to learners whenever they need to do individual work.

Module 8 Activity 2 Learning in ICT enabled classrooms

Learning in the 21st century is supported by ICT enabled classrooms where students are continuously engaged and responsible for their own learning. I do believe that students learn better when they are involved in the learning and the presence of ICTs create such an environment. This suggests a student-centred environment where the teacher acts as a facilitator and /or guide in the learning process.

In the ICT enabled classroom, teachers and students are exposed to a wealth of information in various subject areas through the Internet and the World Wide Web. They do not have to rely on books and magazines from libraries or other sources which may be outdated or unavailable due to limited copies.  The students are also exposed to a number of media to source information. In addition, ICT facilitates access to resource persons and other professionals around the world.

While the pros for ICT enabled classroom are numerous, we must also bear in mind the high cost of hardware and software, maintenance cost as well as the need for training and support of teachers to use it for teaching and learning. Teachers will have to effectively plan for the incorporation of ICTs in their lessons.