Blending Learning is a combination of online and in class learning. According to the ministry web site http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/elearning/blend.html there are many successful classrooms in Ontario.
I can see where this type of classroom would be advantageous for both the teacher and the student. The student would have the advantage of becoming an independent learner, working at their own pace, yet still interacting within a classroom setting for discussion. In remote northern areas, I believe students could excel in the right climate. Once they learn the skills to connect with the provincial learning management system, as mentioned on the web page, they will gain that independence and will be confident in taking their learning to the post secondary level. Many students in remote areas continue their education online and an early introduction to e-learning will only benefit the student.
I can see where this type of classroom would be advantageous for both the teacher and the student. The student would have the advantage of becoming an independent learner, working at their own pace, yet still interacting within a classroom setting for discussion. In remote northern areas, I believe students could excel in the right climate. Once they learn the skills to connect with the provincial learning management system, as mentioned on the web page, they will gain that independence and will be confident in taking their learning to the post secondary level. Many students in remote areas continue their education online and an early introduction to e-learning will only benefit the student.
Upon reading through colleagues insightful information, I was prompted to “read more about it” I found a blog that described why it is impossible for today’s teachers to deliver personalized learning.
The article talks about the traditional style of learning and how it has become obsolete in our 21st century classroom. In a world of social problems teachers often become a reliable shoulder to cry upon. We have taken on that role out of necessity for the students well being. More and more obligation seems to be falling on our laps and we need to find a way to balance all this out. Blended learning may be the answer to give the teacher more room to work with all the overlap of responsibility. Online work for the student will keep them occupied, while the teacher addresses issues and gives individualize attention to the students that need it most
Do you believe teachers today are unable to deliver personalized learning?
Great post Ada...
ReplyDeleteWhat I resonated with the most here, was your statement: "Blended learning may be the answer to give the teacher more room to work with all the overlap of responsibility. Online work for the student will keep them occupied, while the teacher addresses issues and gives individualize attention to the students that need it most". I feel that blended learning and use of E-learning tools are going to help those students in need of "more" regardless of where they are on the "spectrum" of ability. They can use these tools to review, reflect and redo and can use these tools to move ahead or go back, when needed. And, like you say, what a great way for the teacher to be able to spend more time with those learners needing more 1:1 instruction.
Thanks for the links in your post Ada! I enjoy reading your posts. Wish we could meet in person because I'd like to have time to challenge and elaborate on your comment near the end 'Online work for the student will keep them occupied,' I have a feeling and hope that you mean more than this!
ReplyDeleteWhen I set my students up to keep them occupied, I would give them links to research, online quizzes or something that would be easy to assess, yet keep them busy. I have yet to experience the blended classroom, but I know it would be willing to work with it.
ReplyDelete"Keeping them Busy" may not always work the way you want it to. I am not certain what you a referring here .....maybe that Yes some of my students can't seem to work without constant teacher direction.