March
2009
Preparing Students for Elearning0
The second reading for this week was on the topic of Elearning. Elearning is where teaching and learning takes place online. It is ‘anywhere/anytime’ learning meaning that students can learn in an environment of their own choosing at a time that is suitable for them (Cowley, Chanley, Downes, Holstrom, Ressel, Siemens & Weisburgh, 2002). However, due to lack of motivation and self-discipline in the students, this can turn into ‘never/nowhere’ (Cowley et al, 2002).
Elearning requires students to be aware of what they need to achieve, be organised with the management of their work and be self-motivated to complete their work (Cowley et al, 2002). Students also need to be disciplined, self-directed, and be able to use a computer and the other ICT involved with elearning.
I do not believe that elearning is an effective teaching and learning method. I believe that it does not take into account the varied skills students have with ICT and I do not think that it effectively caters for their different learning styles. Also, due to all the teaching and learning taking place online, there is no face-to-face interaction between student and teacher. I believe that face-to-face interaction between student and teacher is extremely important as it allows students to ask questions and receive clarification immediately (Cowley et al, 2002) and on a more personal level.
Therefore, I believe that elearning will not be an important part of my program as I think face-to-face interaction between student and teacher is more important. While I believe that it is important for students to become self-motivated, organised and disciplined, I do not think elearning is the only way to achieve this.
References:
Cowley, J., Chanley, S., Downes, S., Holstrom, L., Ressel, D., Siemens, G. & Weisburgh, M. (2002). Preparing students for Elearning: Elearning course. Retrived March 16, 2009, from http://www.elearnspace.org/Articles/Preparingstudents.htm
Day 223 – Learning to use computers by LShave (flickr).
