Maybe this is why it’s a bigger week than other weeks ... my question to you as I am taking part in my reflective practice today : are we really changing learning?
I’m sure most of you will tell me : «Of course, Johanne!» And, I have to agree that we see technology integration, school board wide, everywhere. I can’t argue the change in some of the tools we use, in some of the environment we work in. Nevertheless, are we really changing learning? We attend conferences surrounding innovation, we talk about how to get student to create, to collaborate. We share great experiences of student engagement.
However, when I take a step back to listen to conversations, to observe what goes on in many schools, what gets me is the too often talks surrounding cool websites, amazing applications. YES, they are cool! YES, I would likely use these apps at a given time. But will a cool app that may «augmente reality» or is said to foster collaboration really change learning? It will enhance the engagement of the students for a while : ok, I can agree. It may promote more collaboration and communication during the time the app is used : ok, I can agree. It will bring a long term durable change in the way my students learn. I can’t agree to that one! Well, at least not until you tell me more ...
What is it about this app that makes you think it’s cool? Convince me that this app will better the learning of my students. In two years, will my students still be using this app? Tell me more about that. What if the app doesn’t quite answer the need of my students? Can you propose an alternative?
Of course, it’s not about the app! But, are we having these conversations now? Are we having these conversations school board wide, everywhere, now? Are we using the right entry point to really change learning? Is there a right entry point? Is there an entry point? I’m still having the same bottom line conversations today as I had five years ago. I can’t have these same conversations in five years. I want to see my kids experience learning differently. Now. How is learning changing now?
Can you push my reflexion further? I would love to hear from you! Get the conversation going in the comments!
Peux-tu pousser ma réflexion plus loin? J’aimerais savoir ce que tu en penses! Engage la conversation en laissant un commentaire.