QED 522 ICT - Reflection 1

Had our first tutorial yesterday.

Met up with the tutorial group, made up largely of former engineers. Here they are:

Dr Ashley Tan laid his ground rules & expectations. Also introduced ICT, Master Plan 1 & 2 to us.

MP1 was introduced in 1997 to introduce & infuse the use of technology, specifically, ICT in schools. It set out to improve the curriculum & assessment approach to encourage self-directed, engaged & independent learning among students. It involved the acquisition of resources, setting up of infrastructure & training of human resources.

In 2002, MP2 was launched, riding on the success of MP1. MP2 adopts a systemic & holistic approach to integrating ICT in education. Educational processes & structures are further enhanced. There is mutual interaction among pupils, teachers, and curriculum & assessment. ICT serves as a platform for constructivism (learner-centered classrooms). It aims to achieve engaged & active learning among students. Teachers can also attain professional & personal growth with the use of ICT.

MP1 vs MP2 :

MP1
a) Use of IT to support existing curriculum
b) Static print content
c) One-size-fits-all approach
d) Basic skills & competencies
e) Phased approach
f) Standard technology provisions
g) Teacher-centred pedagogies

MP2
a) Seamless integration
b) Dynamic digital content
c) Mass customisation & ability-driven approach
d) Range of competencies
e) Greater ownership & accountability
f) Flexible technology provisions
g) Pupil-centred pedagogies

I have no doubt that ICT can work wonders in most, if not all, aspects of life, particularly in education. However, I'm concerned if ICT slows down the learning process as much depends on the students' proactiveness. Self-directed learners are expected to be self-motivating, self-managing & self-modifying. Can ICT can work for N(T) students? Can we rely on them to be self-directed learners? Will these pupils use ICT effectively for active learning?

Lots of questions & uncertainties in my mind.

1) Course expectations?
2) Group & individual assignments - What do we need to do? How to start? What is expected? Any reference material? Previous projects? More info required.
3) Lotsa deadlines to meet in October, not to mention preparations for SMMT in Oct too. And it's not even full-load now.

Spent the whole afternoon studying in the library, doing research & tutorials. Read my ICT notes on constructivism & the benefits of ICT in learning & teaching. A lot of useful examples too. Has certainly helped me appreciate the use of ICT more. But can this work with N(T) students???

TS