How technology has changed the way we learn

Many definitions of learning utilise the word ‘change’.  McLagen, 1978, Fincher, 1998 and Gagne, 1972 all adopt the word ‘change’ when defining learning.  Whether we use simple-learning or complex –learning theories to bring about a change in understanding or behaviours, ICT is a key element.

During our ICT lessons, we have reviewed and investigated a wide range of technologies and software and debated the positives and negatives of utilising these for our learning and teaching.  Many of these technologies bring subjects to life interactively, encouraging the learner to explore and investigate the subject further.

As a child and young man, I did not have the opportunity to utilise technology as a learning tool. As an adult, technology has played a significant role in my learning and resulted in educational achievement.

The ICT module has challenged my assumptions, some of which were negative, about the way we utilise this tool in our learning.  Hillier, 2011 describes the importance of thinking reflectively. The establishment and maintenance of a teaching blog works very well as a reflective tool, assisting with learning and development.

References

Hillier, Y (2011) Reflective Teaching in Further and Adult Education,3^rd editionLondon: Continuum International Publishing Group Ltd.

Class notes and Hand outs Prepare to Teach Module 2013