Wednesday, August 20, 2008

QED 522 ICT - Reflection 3

This week, we were introduced to 8 pedagogical approaches to engaged learning.

Some of these approches have similarities & may overlap one another. The 8 approaches are briefly described below:

1. Anchored instruction

Students learn through activities that evolve around a focal point or an 'anchor' which could be an authentic problem situation.


2. Case-based learning

Pupils examine & analyse cases, & provide their views of what they would have done under such circumstances.


3. Cognitive apprenticeship

Teachers & pupils form an alliance where teachers become the 'experts' or engage external experts to guide students in their learning tasks.


4. Goal-based scenario

Students learn specific skills through real-world situations, e.g. students learn machining skills through creation of artefacts in D&T coursework.


5. Inquiry-based learning

Pupils learn by asking questions & gathering information, and find solutions to these questions.


6. Knowledge building

Students prepare resources through creation & continual improvement of ideas which benefit others.


7. Problem-based learning

Pupils analyse problems, make diagnosis & provide solutions for them.


8. Project-based learning

Students learn through creation of meaningful products, models or artefacts.

Our group has been assigned the following 2 pedagogical approaches:

a) Inquiry-based learning

b) Knowledge building

The group will present a lesson plan based on these 2 approaches with the use of Cmap as ICT tool for engaged learning.

You can read more from our pbwiki site here

As a student, I've come across the following approaches:

a) Case-based learning (university)
b) Problem-based learning (secondary school)
c) Project-based learning (Secondary school, university)

As mentioned earlier, some of these pedagogies are similar & may overlap one another. For example, case-based, problem-based & project-based are highly similar to one another where students study & analyse a given situation / problem / task, & propose solutions to them.

ICT tools & interactive resources provides a means for pupils to engage actively in collaborative learning & knowledge building. These tools & resources anable pupils to be self-directed learners, independent in their learning but yet interdependent on one another for greater achievements / results. Pupils are exposed to real-world authentic problem solving situations. They are able to use these ICT tools to enhance effective & efficient learning. There are millions of unlimited resoources out there & ICT bridges pupils to these sources. Imagine the amount of knowledge one can benefit from them.

Next week is ICT e-learning week & we have to do a write up on the issues & strategies in face-to-face learning environment & online learning environment.

Sunday, August 17, 2008

Beijing Olympics 2008 08.08.08 - 24.08.08

Beijing Olympics 2008 - the BEST show on earth! And USA swimmer, 23 yo Michael Phelps, is the BEST Olympian on earth! Congrats!



Tuesday, August 5, 2008

QED 522 ICT - Reflection 2

Today we studied ICT for engaged learning.

We were introduced to the concept, indicators & dimensions of engaged learning. Dr Tan started us of in groups so that we could share our individual experiences with one another. This provided us a platform for collaborative learning. He also practised scaffolding by giving us suggestions on some of the tutorial questions, probed our understanding & prompted us with stimulating queries. He helped us bridge missing gaps & provided feedback to our assignments. He was playing his role in an engaged-learning environment.

As students, we played our roles. We were asked to share & exchange real-world authentic learning experience, engaged in collaborative learning among our group members, make connections between what we learned & what are being practised in the real world (from MOE website). As usual we have to make weekly reflections in our personal blogs & post our assignments in wiki as a platform for info sharing.

ICT provide the tools to facilitate & promote engaged learning. It is commonly used where simulation, visualisation & modelling is required. It aids in problem-solving, decision making, data analysis, data transfer & data management. It serves as a channel / network for active communication, interaction, knowledge creation / sharing across geographical & cultural barriers.

Next, I'd like to learn how to design lesson ideas for ICT-based engaged learning, the various pedagogical approaches & how to put them into practice. And perhaps help me in my assignments? ;o)