After completing my first uni assignment having been out of the game for 20 years, the importance of teaching students research skills has really hit home with me. When I last studied, the internet was in its infancy and all information sources were either provided or at least limited to five – ten that you could use. Having to navigate and evaluate the massive information environment we live in, was not only daunting but also very difficult. As I work through the module readings the the introduction of inquiry learning has also become evident and how important it is for students and teachers to develop their inquiry skills to have a classroom community of inquiry.
Relection
Reflection: What are the ramifications of having ready access to information at all times? How does this affect me and my capacity to study this subject?
Benefits
- Technology allows information to be just one click away.
- When studying, information is no longer limited to the prescribed texts or books found in
the library. My access is not limited. I can uncover information through a variety of
paths, the internet, books, data bases, interact 2 etc. - I am not restricted to when and how I study. I am able to work at my own pace and at my own times.
Negatives
- Information overload – access to too much.
- The authenticity of the information that is being produced.
- The ability to switch off, walk away and leave it alone.