Choosing &
Using Technologies in Education & Training
Technologies for Teaching and Learning
The classroom is as much a technology, or
tool for learning, as is the computer. The classroom may be
on a campus, in the workplace or at a learning centre. More
often than not, it is used these days in conjunction with
other forms of audio, visual and/or computer-based
technologies.
Lock-Step Class
This method does not necessarily demand any
technology at all; the constraints are in the expectation
that the whole class will meet together, and that learners
are led through the curriculum at a pace set by the teacher
rather than according to their individual progress. Though
flexible delivery is gradually leading us away from this
method of delivery, it does have some advantages. It provides
instant interaction between participants (learners and
teachers), and it is familiar to all and therefore easy to
prepare for. Its main disadvantage is that it is inaccessible
to those who are not within easy reach of the campus or who
cannot attend at the specified times. It has limited room to
cater for different ability and speed of learning, though a
skilful teacher can accommodate a variety of learning styles.
A further disadvantage is that it tends to perpetuate the
notion that learning depends on the length of time of the
program rather than what the learner achieves.
Self-Paced and Drop-in Classes
Classes and tutorials may be held at
regular times, where learners are either expected to attend,
but able to progress at their own pace using pre-prepared
materials, or can drop in to discuss the progress they have
made using pre-prepared materials away from the class. This
method encourages independent learning skills, while
providing tutorial support when it is needed. It avoids waste
of time for faster learners, while ensuring that those who
progress more slowly are not left behind. One teacher can
usually handle a larger group of this kind than in a
teacher-led class, and so staff time may be released for
other activities such as developing learning materials. In
some cases it may be possible to hold combined classes for
learners in several different subjects.
If the program content demands
demonstration, practical work or a high degree of
interaction, this method is best used in conjunction with
others.
While this is a relatively simple method to
employ, it demands careful organisation and communication
between teachers, and the preparation or acquisition of
suitable learning materials.
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