BP#3_20091001_Anti_Teaching_

I think a compilation of virtual learning environments with course management systems, PLEs and Web 2.0 tools would work for a vast majority of students. Just think, in Gardner's Multiple Intelligence Theory, we learned that we all learn differently. I know for myself that I am a visual learner. I do not do well listening to lectures. Here's how you can use VLE, PLEs and Web 2.0 tools and make them work in your classroom;

Using a virtual learning environments like the Smithsonian Institute, students can use a Web 2.0 tool like blogging to personally journal in a PLE like iGoogle. They can blog about what they saw and learned there or the teacher can ask a specific question that they would have to blog about.

In this one lesson you have covered many of the MIs in Gardner's theory. You have reached and engaged a majority of your students just by changed the way you teach.

Technology can never be enough because it is constantly changing and teachers are not. In order for technology to be enough teachers need to put away the industrial way of teaching and move into the technological way of teaching. Until they do that technology will never be enough. We have new schools with all this great technology and teachers don't even know how to use it. It is a complete disservice to the students!

The key components I would include in new schools are;

1. Develop a school technology plan

2. Monthly technology professional developments-Curriculum integration utilizing project based learning, digital media, literacy information Communication Technology.

3. Interactive Systems in every classroom-Interactive whiteboards/slates/student responses, classroom audio (wireless), LCD projectors, document cameras, teacher laptop computers

4. Student computers

5. Access to broadband

6. A focus on content creation, digital imaging, and web apps

1. Open Office/Microsoft Office/ Google Docs

2. Adobe photoshop and Premier Bundle/iLife/Picnik

3. Promethean Activstudio (project based software for all teachers and students

7. A network laser printer in every classroom

8. Access to digital and video cameras for visual literacy

The key components for 21st century schools and learning beyond the test are

1. Focus on learning and thinking skills, including critical-thinking and problem-solving skills; communication skills; creativity and innovation skills; collaboration skills and information and media literacy skills

2. Develop 21st century content which includes global awareness; financial, economics, business, and entrepreneurial literacy; civic literacy;and health and awareness

3. Technology enabled learning to engage digitally savvy students