BECTA ICT Research Network
Joining the BECTA ICT Research Network is an excellent way to keep up to date with and get involved in discussions relating to technology and learning.
At the time of writing (10th May 2008) there are a number of discussions about the use of VLEs/Learning Platforms in the classroom.
You can join the discussions by registering at the BECTA website.CLICK HERE
Technology led by learning OR learning led by technology?
Comment
In a number of postings teachers/tutors make claims about the 'excellent' technical features of their particular platform.
The use of learning platforms in the classroom should always be led by learning and not the other way round. The technology that we use in the classroom is rarely the result of consultation with the users. If the learning platform debate is led by the technical features of any one particular product this smacks of 'putting the cart before the horse'.
In all of the online discussions there is very little evidence of learner input or of consideration for the views of learners in the use of learning platform technology.
Schools are trying to play catch up with Bebo, Facebook, Second Life and all of the networking technologies that pupils are currently using. Sorry - you've missed the boat! Why should we use a fairly naf, dull, un-exciting learning platform when we have all of those other environments to choose from?
Year 11 Student
Recorded during a small group discussion about
flexible learning using technology. May 2007.
Lo! Men have become the tools of their tools. Henry David Thoreau
