BP2_2009101_Anti Teaching

Based on the assumption that the educational systems as we know them do not work for the vast majority of the students moving through them, what would work? Think about what you have learned about Multiple Intelligences, Brain-Based Learning, and good instructional design. Are virtual learning environments with course management systems the answer? What about PLEs and Web 2.0 tools? Is technology itself enough? What are the key components you would include in new schools?


The overarching theme that I have gathered form the classes so far is that teaching and learning must become more student centered. This includes varied approaches and appeal to the various types of learners. To answer the question is technology itself enough that answer would be a resounding no. Good instructional design dictates that could never be. In last month?s class to do just a small lesson module took significant research and time, it took us four weeks and we did not apply R2D2 model to its fullest extent because we did not have the time. It would take months possibly years of pre planning and study before we could even decide on the technology to accomplish the specific outcome that we would have decides on. I think that course management systems and (CMS) and personal learning environments (PLE) are both the way to go. Because their will always be various types of learners options are always going to be needed, this is the basis multiple intelligence theory (MI). Collaboration is a neded skill for problem solving it is a tool well supported by web 2.0 tools. But the reason for programs such as EMDT is the fact that we the teachers as a collective are a big part of the problem with education. The EMDT program recognizes that we need to change and offers a direction for that change and growth. What are the key components you would include in new schools? Progressive and aggressive researchers working in a large collaborative utilizing web2.0 tools, strong teacher training programs geared to changing the direction of teaching in a meaningful way. The emergent technology is also a large component of this formula supporting online, distant and classroom learning keeping in mind the different types of learners, student based teaching and learning.