Week 6: CAN You HEAR me Now?

Week 6 - Can you hear me now?

This week we explored tools for creating podcasts and discussed ways to build learning communities to facilitate interaction and critical thinking. With all these tools available, what are the implications for changing the way we work, teach and learn? 

First, I must state that I had a great deal of anxiety in relation to developing a podcast.  I had never done this before and found the task quiet intimidating.  However, once I began to delve into the development of my podcast, I began to realize that I AM capable of creating such a thing and that it is not near as threatening as I had originally thought.  I feel very technologically accomplished. 

While technology is no stranger to fast pace, now it is taking education by the hand and bringing it up to speed as well with a “Welcome to the virtual world-hold on tight” attitude.  The tools that are available today broaden instruction to a whole new level/world.  The days of pencil and paper are still necessary but now to take note of the Learner-Learner, Learner-Content, and Learner-Instructor opportunities available in education.  There are certain roles that the student and instructor must take-on to make this transition to the virtual world more facilitated and successful as the online learning communities sprout up around us.

What is preventing us from such changes?

I am able to accomplish many more tasks efficiently with the use of technology.  Instruction can be developed and distributed quicker than ever before.   I do believe special consideration must be given to student understanding in these times of virtual-ness.   Not all students will be proficient online learners but that number is increasing as I type.  With special consideration to the student who struggles with online learning, it is important that educators maintain there will always be a need for teacher-to-student interaction.

In addition, there is a large assortment of technological advancements available.  Instructors must be willing to try new technologies and find what works best for them.  This can be time consuming and frustrating.  Minds must be broadened and methods must be changed.  People are creatures of habit but technology is not.  There must be a common middle ground that is found so the knowledge is facilitated without lag.

If I could wave a magic wand the first thing I would change are attitudes-even that of my own.  To many, technology is threatening and often times if we don’t fully understand the concept, avoidance and apprehension set in.  In these cases, educators must remember that the student is our focus and their learning is our product.  Web 2.0 tools enhance the learner while developing the skill in ways never even thought of before.  With this knowledge, districts must redesign their missions and focus on creating the learning environments to prepare students for the 21^st century and all the technological advancements it will send our way.  I’ll be honest…I’m a little frightened but A LOT excited.  I’m only human, right?