<rant> To start on a negative regarding the iLE@RN video, I absolutely disagree that the ‘e’ in elearning comes from anything other than electronic. We can wax lyrical all we like about the changes in learning, but it is this information age that has facilitated this change. I don’t believe the term elearning can transcend it’s origins.
“Computers are not the focus”. Isn’t that contrary to the content of the course . . . the whole course is about new technology. Absolutely, elearning is engaging and evolving, and it is about embracing and enthusiasm. What is engaging though? What is there to embrace? It’s the new tools driven by the technology!!!! Electronic tools. Later the video goes on to say a key to the model is the ability to access information anywhere, anytime. How? With the use of technology!
I should temper my rage, as I do understand the next point. The focus should be the “learning” and technology merely the tool used to achieve this goal. I absolutely agree with this statement. But as the major point of differentiation between these new learning practices and past learning practices is the incorporation of technology, technology is clearly the catalyst for the change in practice otherwise it would just be called ‘learning’ and not ‘elearning’! The focus, in all truthfulness, is learning how technology can enrich the teaching and learning environment for both teachers and students. </rant>
Having gotten my negative out of the way, I should state I find the iLE@RN model to be sound, and I particularly agree with the idea that “I” am in charge of my learning.
I found the digital adaption to Blooms Taxonomy to be very helpful. In terms of programming, the taxonomy could be used to place useful tools and Web 2.0 activities with the correct content. It’s quite easy to see from a programme if a task calls for evaluation or creating, and so using such a taxonomy would enable the programmer to include specific examples for ICT integration. Much better than doing an activity just to tick the ICT box!
Overall, I found the process interesting and motivating. All these tools are at my fingertips, and whilst I’m making use of some, I really am missing out if I’m not making the most of many others. I aim to be more active with my Delicious network and to try out a Ning for an extended period of time. Scootle should hopefully worm its way into my lessons this term. Also, Bubbl.us will definitely be my first port of call for my next mind map.
Even some of the tools I (at first blush) discounted turned out to have some potential when considering the ideas of other bloggers. For instance, Jay’s Module 6 Blog (which I commented on) regarding the use of Glogster.
This isn’t really the end of the Web 2.0 process, just the end of mandatory posting. The really challenging bit of the course is keeping all the positive aspects going when no one is monitoring. Hopefully I can meet that challenge.







