Final Reflections on Module 8

This module was challenging to complete because of the intense research, reading and editing and the several activities which all had to be completed in the scheduled time.  Although quite intense, it allowed me to review the various technological tools and how these could be integrated into the teaching and learning environment.

I anticipate my teachers using some if not all of these at my school now that the Ministry of Education has launched its ICT policy for schools on my island.  However, finance is a critical issue at this stage as small island states in our region are experiencing struggling economies and corporate citizens and businesses are not willing to invest in such ventures at this time.  It therefore calls for schools to become creative and do things differently if we are expected to provide students with 21st century education and skills.

Some of the best practices which this module speaks to can be utilized effectively based on the economic environment which our country is now experiencing.  It will require teachers to move from their comfort zones and expand their horizons to new practices which benefits everyone in the school environment.

I look forward to their use and the results which will be accomplished from teaching and learning in new and creative ways. 

Module 8 Activity 10 - The flipped classroom

The idea of a flipped classroom is quite new.  It focuses on the learner and not the teacher.  For some teachers it might become an issue knowing that the focus is not on them and their control of the learning environment but the classroom now becomes learner centred.

I could see my teachers utilizing this strategy but my only concerns will be connectivity and students' access to computers.  It is difficult not knowing when the electricity will be suppressed thereby prohibiting connectivity.

Module 8 Activity 9 - Cellphones in the Classroom

Cellphones in the classroom? 

A question that teachers are presently faced with.  These have their place in the classroom but it depends on the teacher and the objectives or goals for their use.  I am of the opinion that teachers must be familiar with how to integrate as this could pose problems.  It is not the tool but how the teacher uses the tool and the monitoring process.

Module 8 Activity 8 - Managing online communication and collaboration

This topic is one which teachers need to come to grips with.  Educators posit that technology enhances learning but to achieve the desired outcomes it must be managed properly.

I am of the opinion that technology can enhance learning but it calls for the teacher to become familiar with the various ICT tools and know how these can be integrated into the teaching learning experience.  After all the objective is to have students build knowledge, acquire 21st century skills and become producers and not just consumers.

In all of this, it requires the teacher to manage the communication and collaboration process. Guidelines ought to be done in conjunction with the students.  Constant monitoring is important thereby reducing bullying, inappropriate behaviour and fraternizing between students.   The teacher therefore becomes an observant member of the group to intervene only when necessary. 

Module 8 Activity 7 learning with Tablets

The inclusion of tablets in the classroom as a learning tool is quite a new phenomenon in the Caribbean.  Its effectiveness depends on teachers knowing how to first use it and then knowing how to integrate it into the teaching and learning environment.

Managing tablet use is also very critical.  I believe that in a class of 30 students with tablets that there in lies the challenge of monitoring.  Students will need to understand and employ the guidelines for the tablet use in class and become owners of these guidelines, thereby ensuring that their peers also adhere to the prescribed guidelines.

Since this is new technology for some teachers, in order for the process of integration to be a success, I would ensure that a community of practice - CoP be formed as a support group for teachers and become an integral part of professional development.

Module 6 Activity 6 One-to-One Learning

One to one learning augers well for differentiated learning.  Although there are pros and cons as to this strategy in the classroom, it forces us as teachers to rethink how we teach.