BP3_2009101_Anti-Teaching

     Too often we fall into the mistaken mindset that all students learn the same way and that their learning can be measured using calculated, generic standards.  The truth is Multiple Intelligences theory and Brain-Based Learning has proven these concepts wrong.

     The Schools Out – Personal Learning Environments video outlines the glaring issues in education today.  The system that was built for the Industrial Revolution was done so with the assumption that the teacher held the key to knowledge.  However, information is now easily shared through the Internet, and students don’t necessarily need to only rely on their teachers.

     In the video, Networked Student, the concept that Connectivism takes today’s Internet tools and allows the student to be in control of their own learning is explained.  If the real problem in education today is the lack of relevance (as stated in Anti-Teaching: Confronting the Crisis of Significance) then one solution is to allow students the opportunity to define what they consider relevant to their lives.

     I believe that virtual learning environments are the answer because of their versatility.  Using Web 2.0 tools and other technology can allow for easy differentiatation for students allowing them to work at their own pace, researching their own interests.  In using a system like this, students would most likely do better because they have a voice in what they learn. 

     There still needs to be a teacher’s role, but it needs to be redefined as a facilitator of Personal Learning Environments, rather than a lecturer.  Someone still needs to be there to guide students through processes and evaluate forward progress.  Course management systems should also be leveraged to help students through their learning.  I am currently building one through Moodle for next year.  At my school, the ninth grade team within the ATM learning community will roll out course management systems in every class.

     My perfect school would start with the gift of a laptop for every student.  Students would also have at least one computer course a year in which all other curriculum would be tied to projects using whatever the current technology is at the time.  I envision these computer courses to be the hands-on practice students need to prepare for the real world.  The other classes would also incorporate technology through the use of personal learning environments with an emphasis on creating networks from around the world.

     Obviously, a simply standardized test would not be a sufficient measuring stick, so a digital portfolio would need to be developed and evaluated by a panel of current, future and retired teachers, community leaders and other students from around the world via the Internet.  This evaluation would be assessing pre-determined specific skills that would be deemed necessary for life after high school.  The focus would be a demonstration of the knowledge acquired, not merely a comprehension check.