Anderson on e-learning
Consider what Anderson means when he describes the attributes of learning in terms of being learner-, knowledge-, assessment- and community-centred.
Anderson stresses that to be learner-centred is to be aware of the “unique cognitive structures and understandings that learners bring to the learning context” (Anderson, 2008). As teachers, we need to make an effort to get to know who we are instructing. This is not always an easy thing to do. In fact, it is very difficult. Teaching in a f2f class may provide more opportunity to get to know students, but it does not mean that relationships will form. I can only imagine that getting to know students in an online environment would be even more challenging. The teacher can only know what is voluntarily given. There is no body language and tone is much harder to read in postings and emails.
“Online learning neither advantages or disadvantages knowledge-centred learning in comparison to campus-based learning” (Anderson, 2008). Building curriculum for f2f classes or online environments may look different, however, there has been much research to show that there is little to no significant difference in the results of the learner. The assessment of the content can become the focus and online instructors need to be wary of heaping on too much work. Anderson speaks of some great tools for online learners to tap into to ease the burden of assessment (computer-marking, automated tutors, social networking).
Community-centered learning relies heavily on the those that make up the community. Anderson points out that not everyone is in agreement as to what the expectation is of individuals in a community, and so each will look different.
To what extent have you experienced on-line or mixed-mode courses that achieved this kind of learning environment?
I have seen communities form in my MET experience many times over. I am in my sixth course and some of the communities have been very vocal and supportive and others have been non-existent or even negative. Putting a focus on strengthening online communities is important. Being a part of a professional learning community (PLC), like we have in the MET program, is fulfilling.
How might you use the learning technologies tools you have at your disposal to help you to create meaningful interactions?
Presently, I teach f2f and much of what I do to create meaningful interactions is in the class and involves participation on the part of my students. As I venture into the world of blended learning, I expect to use things like asynchronous and synchronous discussion forums to pull my students together. This is still participation, but it will look different. I will need to be prepared to fumble my way through facilitating these kinds of activities.
References
Anderson, T. (2008a). Towards a Theory of Online Learning. In: Anderson, T. & Elloumi, F. Theory and Practice of Online Learning. Athabasca University.