Jeff Borden gave a great presentation on the rationale of why and how online learning can help students and teachers. His talk was not full of the often empty rhetoric about how “digital learners” are different from the rest of us. I’ve thought and written about this on my blog (MrPahs.com). Jeff said the learners haven’t changed–the way they and we learn has changed. I think the sooner we include everyone in the conversation about learners the better. No one benefits from creating a divide between so-called digital and non-digital learners. Another point that Jeff made was that students like technology because they like variety. We all like variety–young and old. Online learning can help address this deep need inside of all of us.
Another important way Jeff made for the case for online learning is that the technology can meet the many needs that teachers have everyday. As teachers, we want our students to write more, to think more, to create more. Online technology tools can help us achieve these goals. By using some very straight-forward tools effectively, we can get a lot of return for our investment. What really came through in Jeff’s talk was that he wasn’t just a “tech head” going off on the cool new tools. It was very clear that he uses these tools in actual classrooms. It’s great to hear from someone who has “the goods” and can help teach and inspire others.
Note: This blog entry was also posted at http://boardbuzz.nsba.org/tl/2009/10/how-a-virtual-learning-environment-can-and-should-help-learners/.
#1 by Dr. Sally Mason at October 29th, 2009
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Mr. Pahs – I was excited to read your recent blog. I was able to hear Mr. Borden speak a few months back at a conference. I, like you, feel that his work is truly exceptional. The practicality in his message inspired all of my teachers in the room, yet it was all backed by research, science, and theory that supported teaching and learning.
I was particularly fascinated by the gaming elements. Did he show you the ARG (alternative reality game)? I have 3 teachers currently working on an ARG of our own – the serious games discussion as Mr. Borden described it really changed some mindsets around here! (It also changed some ideas about publishers as I believe he works for Pearson eCollege.)
Thank you for your own support of education. I am excited that all levels of education are finding ways to incorporate technology as our students, young and old, will use it seamlessly in life. We need more Jeff Bordens in the world getting out that vital message and more educators taking those ideas and implementing them. Keep up the great work sir!