BP3_2009101_Anti-Teaching

I think that both virtual learning environments with course management systems and PLE could be extremely helpful to the educational field but I do not think that there is “one answer” to solving the many problems that education faces. For the average student the virtual environment and PLEs would probably work out well. My concern would be for the IEP students who may need more individualized content. I think that students with IEPs would probably benefit more from PLEs because of the ability to adjust the content and the method of presentation of the material for the individual’s needs. However according to Educause (2009) PLEs may be limiting based on the students decision-making and organizational abilities. Based on the MIT and the brain-based learning theories, the method would need to vary just as students learning styles vary in order for learning to be effective.

Since technology is such a major role in the majority of careers in our society, as well as in personal lives, using more technology to teach our children could only enhance their success later in life. As confirmed by Educause (2009) because of technology the roles of students and teachers are changing and the teacher is now collaborating and the student is now able to not just consume information, but also connect it. I don’t think technology itself will ever be “enough”, but I also feel that a “teacher” by his/herself can also never be enough. Teachers will always be necessary to create significance. Unfortunately, at this point many teachers have not created that significance. As Wesch suggests, if our students are not cut out for school, than our mold is too narrow or not meaningful enough to inspire the students.

As the Buddhist proverb states, ”when the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” Perhaps as an educator, rather than preparing students for tests, we should start preparing them for problems. When a student has a problem they cannot answer, it is then that they learn to find the “teacher” whether that be a teaching professional, a website, a video, or a classmate. I agree with Wesch, that students demonstrate passion in learning when they are free to answer questions that are meaningful and relevant to their own lives. According to Davis (1999) there are several strategies for motivating students such as capitalizing on the students needs, active participation, ask students for feedback, high expectations, student goals, enthusiasm, de-emphasize grades and competition. Considering this, the key components that I feel should be included in new schools is definitely differentiated instruction to support the multiple intelligences, motivational tools, active participation and goal setting to support the brain-based learning theory, and technology to support the changing society.

References

(in addition to professor required Anti-Teaching – Wesch and 7 things you should know about PLE –Educause.

Davis, B., (1999). Motivating students. Tools for Teaching. Retrieved

August 15, 2009 from http://honolulu.hawaii.edu/intranet/committees/FacDevCom/guidebk/teachtip/motiv.htm.