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." |
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