The focus of this article is the idea that simply adding computers to a classroom will not create better test scores and more advanced students. Instead, adding these just creates a larger bill to pay and not many results. The idea of online learning comes into the article as well. Instead of just throwing computers into the classroom one needs to look at the issue as though there were no other alternative but to use the computers. In this case, we look at online courses. The new ideas with online courses are that one could take a course that is not normally available to them and even create a course that is tailored to the ways in which the student learns. We are all well aware as educators that students learn best in various different ways and by taking one lesson and catering to the different ways of learning we could better reach each and every student.
Do you agree or disagree with this way of implementing online courses?
To an extent, I agree with this idea because I think that it is extremely important to include all learning styles into a lesson. Students often tell me that they struggle learning concepts and previous teachers were unable to change the way they taught in order to tailor to these students. I feel as though more students would be successful in learning if they were able to learn in the way that they learn best. The only problem I have with this is that I believe learning through an online course is not a one hundred percent substitute for direct instruction, but rather a great complement. It definitely adds to the classroom experience but I do not think that it is a full replacement of the teacher.
How could a school begin to implement these practices?
I think that just as the article stated, by incorporating online classes for students who need to make up a class in order to graduate, or for home school students, a school could begin to implement. Also, rather than completely replacing a teacher, one could have a classroom full of computers, like suggested, and have a roaming teacher going around the room and assisting the students if they have any questions. By doing this, the class still has the guidance of a teacher, but they are able to learn in their own individual styles.
Christensen, C., & Horn, M. (2008, August/September). Disrupting class: Student-centric education is the future. Retrieved October 8, 2008, from Edutopia Web site: http://www.edutopia.org/student-centric-education-technology
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1 comment:
Thanks for your post! And I agree with you. I think ideal would be to have a blended course ultimately -- online and physical elements where a teacher (or mentor really) is physically present roaming around the class helping where needed. Simply cramming more computers into a classroom though won't get you to that vision.
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