Nov 06 2007
8-B-1 Paperless Classes
A paperless class reinforces the role of teacher as facilitator and moderator of learning as opposed to being the sole purveyor of knowledge. In such a situation, it would be the job of the teacher to design a format (blog, wiki, etc.), a time frame, and a clear assessment tool before the class begins. With the framework in place, a learning community would begin as each member of the class, student and teacher alike, contributes ideas and resources toward the learning goals. Assessment can be traditional in the sense of papers, projects, and tests but with a paperless flavor in which everything can be done online. In addition, contributions toward building the knowledge base and adding thoughtful discussion and probing questions would be another reflection of learning.
At first glance, it seems that building a learning community would be easier face-to-face where everyone is in one place at the same time. On the other hand, online learning gives everyone the opportunity to contribute equally because there is not a time limit during which everyone must try to speak. Online, everyone has an equal chance to add their thoughts and resources after reflecting upon the ideas of others .
Create a free edublog to get your own comment avatar (and more!)
You always put things so well. I was also thinking that the “contributions to the knowledge base” could be used in future semesters and future students could benefit as well. Is it possible that learning might become more efficient?
If learners (professional educators and students alike) constantly evaluate and build on their knowledge base, it seems likely that each new addition to the learning community would be the beneficiaries of what has happened in the past. With the information more readily accessible online, it seems to follow that efficiency would increase. I guess this also emphasizes the need for editors!