Module 3 Knowledge Networks – Connected Communities, Open Access and Connected Learning

There was so much learning for me throughout this module, I discovered many new concepts and ideas related to 21st-century learning. However, many concepts related to searching, reviewing, analyzing information through a critical lens. New tools are evolving and innovation is moving forward rapidly due to sharing, collaboration and creative commons licensing. Knowledge no longer belongs to a select few, but rather is accessible and adaptable by connected individuals of all ages across the globe.

Technology has reduced barriers and limitations of the physical classroom. The role of teacher and student in the 21st century may look similar, teachers as co-learners. Students have the opportunity to create and share alongside their classroom teachers. Online, web-based tools have enabled students to create and post videos, collaborate with a class across the country or the globe, post an assignment to receive peer feedback, create and share a 3D drawing on Tinkercad. The evolution of open education resources (OER) facilitates a platform for users to access education through technology.

The use of these new tools though, do require students to learn new digital literacy, media literacy and transliteracy skills. Students need to be instructed and have opportunity to practice participating in an online discussion forum. They need to know how to identify a good source for information, critically analyze the content and share their ideas respectfully. The role of the teacher is still very important. They support students purposeful choice of technology use and implement effective pedagogy enabling technology.

New literacy skills lend itself to more student lead and directed learning environment. Students at the centre of their own learning. Technology enables students the ability to connect, reflect and participate in new learning space. The 6 C’s of 21st-century learning is the pedagogy of digital participation: communication, creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, citizenship and character.

The 6 C’s of Education. Photo Credit: Michael Fullan & Sylvia Duckworth
Retrieved from http://blog.awwapp.com/6-cs-of-education-classroom/

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *