Recent research builds
a powerful case against what used to be accepted "truths"
about learning and technology. First, there is strong evidence that
traditional models of learning, traditional definitions of
technology effectiveness, and traditional models of the cost
effectiveness of technology don't work. In place of these old
assumptions, researchers are positing new ways of looking at
learning that promote:
- engaged, meaningful learning
and collaboration involving challenging and real-life tasks; and
- technology as a tool for
learning, communication, and collaboration
New
Times Demand New Ways of Learning
North Central Regional Educational Laboratory
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"A paradigm shift is taking place in higher
education. According to Barr and Tagg (1995), the paradigm that has governed our
universities is one that defined a university as "an institution that exists to
provide instruction. Subtly but profoundly we are shifting to a new
paradigm where a university becomes an institution that exists to
produce learning." (p. 13) We are beginning to recognize "that
our dominant paradigm mistakes a means
for an end. It takes the means or method
called "instruction" or "teaching" and makes it the end
or purpose.... We now see that our mission is not instruction but rather that of
producing learning with every student by whatever means work best." (p.
13)
Altering Time and Space through
Network Technologies to Enhance Learning
J. Chizmar and D. Williams ©1996, Illinois State
University
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| This paradigm shift is
reflected in the recent name change for Alberta Education which
is now called Alberta Learning. It is also reflected in the way that recently revised Alberta
Program of Studies specify curriculum expectation in terms of general and specific learner
outcomes. An outcomes based curriculum clearly states what students need to learn rather
than what teachers should be teaching.
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| "There is a big difference between the earlier and
current forms of online learning. The earlier type, called Computer
Based Instruction (CBI), focused on the interaction between the student
and computer drills, tutorials or simulations. Today, the prevailing
paradigm is Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), where the primary
form of interaction is between students and instructors, mediated by the
computer."
"Without any doubt, the biggest single change that online
education brings about is an increased tendency towards collaboration
amongst students and teachers." | |
