A team at Sheffield Hallam Uni have just produced an interesting report on e-learning in FE. They categorise e-learning use into 3 types
- as a medium (eg internet, email)
- as a presentation tool (eg powerpoint)
- as a learning/problem solving tool
Now, it occurs to me that a properly structured virtual teams project will press all of these buttons – participants will use the various media, present their outcomes online and utilise a range of online tools to assist them to solve the problem or deliver the task with which they are faced.
The team also noted that the effective use of info and learning technologies had an important effect both on acquisition of knowledge and skills and the students’ development as autonomous learners, at least in their intermediate outcomes (evidence of effect on end-point outcomes was less conclusive). Again, this is something that collaborative projects can deliver well – the abilities to learn autonomously and to acquire relevant knowledge and skills are essential in day-to-day life and absolutely vital in today’s world of work.
They also highlight a number of critical conditions for effective use of ILT
- the availability of adequate equipment
- the tutors’ intentions and teaching skills
- the tutors’ awareness of how to use ILT in their subject and the availability of appropriate resources
- time allocated to tutors for individually and collaboratively developing their ILT practices.
Note the last two points – completely in line with Ted’s comments about teachers’ own use.
It’s an interesting report – read the exec summary at least
