In a recent Ted Talk, educator Will Richardson defends the fact that we need to begin engaging in different conversations about education; a conversation that reflects our new technological reality. Our new educational reality is particularly relevant as it no longer exists in a “world of scarcity,” instead it has evolved to a “world of abundance.” This shift to a vast network of connections, ideas and knowledge make it a wonderful time to be an educator. As Will Richardon states, it is our “moral imperative” [as teachers] to shift our practices to echo our changing world. Whether we “flip” our classrooms or move to a “blended model,” we are doing our students a great disservice if our practices do not change to reflect the abundant opportunities for learning; the traditional model is “ a world that no longer exists” (Eric Hoffer). Truly, what is important is that we work towards becoming digital educators,where we are providing technological opportunities for students learn, connect, collaborate and share knowledge. In the quote to the left, Mark Klassen, a budding cinematographer, shares his thoughts about the opportunities and interactions that are available to him online, and the connections and learning he has gained from the greater online community. Content, knowledge and resources are everywhere; students no longer need to wait for us to give them information. My son learned how to use an iPhone to play educational games at the age of two, and at four he is savvy with most technology. He easily negotiates between learning apps and is able to figure out new technology quite rapidly (on his own). This portable technology allows for the opportunity to bring more information for learning anywhere at any time. This reality mirrors the learning opportunities available to students today; students are not going to wait for you to tell them how to do things, it is their instinctive curiosity that allows them to learn. Students must be able to pursue their interest and passions—this is where the learning occurs—not with teachers filling their brains with facts. In her blog, Shelly Wright explains, “Learning isn't simply a matter of passively absorbing new information…new knowledge should be actively constructed,” and students must be in the driver’s seat that is, owning their learning. With the advent of new technology available to students, the opportunities for learning are transformative, disruptive and endless. As educators we must begin to think critically about our place in this emerging technological field of education. How are we shifting our practice in our schools? We need to begin responding to the immense access to knowledge with new ways of teaching and learning. Progressive teachers recognize the transformative power that technology can bring to the classroom, and many are attempting to try new ways of delivering instruction to the 21 century learner. One such option is to flip the classroom, where teachers provide the “lecture” via a video recording that students are able to access from home. With this method, there is less “instruction time” and more time for project-based work during class time. The jury is out on whether or not this method is truly effective, and many question if this technique is effective “because of the potential for homework overload,” or as educational blogger Shelley Wright explains, “The traditional model of learning is simply being reversed, instead of being reinvented. The lecture (live on video) is still front and centre.” In my face-to-face classroom, I have chosen to work toward creating a blended model of instruction. There are many varying models of blended learning, but when you are working within the confines of a brick and mortar school system, the options are limited. My priority is to utilize technology that is appropriate and to provide as many opportunities for students to be self-directed in their learning. It is important for students to own their learning, utilize the connections available to them (peers, teacher, and global connections), and most importantly, “Our students need to be learning ready” […not college or career ready ] to fully take advantage of all they now have access to and develop their own learning paths to an education and work” (Will Richardson). Resources on Blended Learning, Flipped Classrooms, and Education: NY Times Article: Come to the Revolution Vancouver Sun Article: Flipped Classrooms Create Magic and Controversy in BC: Edutopia: Is Blended Learning Worth the Hype Edutopia: Combining Face-to-Face and Online Learning PLPNetwork.com: The Flip: End of a Love Affair Educator: Will Richardson's Blog |