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.

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!

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)

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

Singapore Dragon Boat Festival 28 & 29 June 2008

The dragon boat team that I've been coaching won Gold in both the Men's & Women's Inter-corporate events on 28-29 June 2008 at Bedok Reservoir. The men's team has been winning Gold for the past 7 races consecutively, since it was formed by me on 15 July 2006. This is the women's first race & they won Gold. I'm so happy & proud of them. Well done! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UkEEDiyT0pk Men

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7qfN-V_Y2g Women

To win Gold is not easy. And to maintain this result in every race is even harder. Nonetheless, we'll continue to train hard & do out best to maintain this record, in the next race in Sept at Bedok Reservoir.

Also, my school team NTU beat NUS in the PM Cup 1000 m race by a boat's length. Congrats, NTU!

NE Show 1 last Sat was nice, especially the fireworks display! :)

I'll be in BBSS will week 4 before going to NIE for my postgraduate course. Hopefully, can return to BBSS to teach the kids & contribute back to the school.

See you all soon!

:)

Jap lesson 2 will resume on Wed Term 3 Week 1

Hihi,

Those who missed the first lesson, pls copy the notes from 1E1 Sarah or Wan Zhen. Lessons will resume on Wed of Term 3 Week 1 1-2 pm at 1E1 classroom. Pls be punctual.

Enjoy ur hols! :)

Sensei

Add me on Friendster

Hihi,

Due to 'popular' demand, I've created a Friendster account. Please add me lowts2102@yahoo.com.

The Elementary Japanese lessons will be conducted after SA1 on Wed 1-2 pm & Fri 12.30-1.30 pm at D&T Workshop. Those who can't make it for BOTH the days will not be able to take the course. Attendance is compulsory for those who signed up & paid S$15 for the textbook.

As this is a VOLUNTARY service by me & has nothing to do with the school, those who do not take the course seriously or skipped >2 lessons will be expelled from the class.

ATTENDANCE IS COMPULSORY!

Study hard for your SA1! :)