Click here-- blended learning and the future of education: Monique Markoff at TEDxIthacaCollege

Summary

This talk explores the potential of Blended Learning, where students engage with computers for a significant portion of their school day, enhancing individualized education. It discusses various models like rotational, lab, flipped classroom, and split models, emphasizing the importance of teacher involvement and the right mindset. The speaker highlights the cost-effectiveness of Blended Learning programs compared to traditional education and calls for a collective effort from educators and developers to innovate and improve educational technology.

Takeaways

• 🤔 The concept of 'Blended learning' suggests a model where students spend at least 25% of their time learning from computers, complementing traditional classroom instruction.
• 📈 Blended learning has shown success in Fresno, California, where students who had access to teacher support in online courses had higher pass rates.
• 👨‍🏫 The 'Face-to-Face' aspect is crucial in Blended learning, indicating that human interaction and guidance remain integral to the learning process.
• 🏫 Different models of Blended learning exist, such as rotational, laboratory, open classroom, and flipped classroom models, each with its own approach to integrating technology.
• 🚫 Blended learning is not solely about teaching technology skills; it's about using computers as a tool for learning, focusing on content rather than the tech itself.
• 💡 There are various educational programs available that support Blended learning, ranging from paid platforms like Accelerated Reader and ST Math to free resources like Khan Academy and Codecademy.
• 💻 When students engage with computers in learning, they can benefit from personalized pacing, immediate feedback, and access to lessons and assignments from home.
• 💼 The financial feasibility of implementing Blended learning can be achieved by adjusting classroom structures or using alternative support figures like coaches or tutors.
• 🔄 Effective Blended learning requires flexibility, commitment, the right mindset, and a redefined role for teachers, who become orchestrators of complex learning paths.
• 🌟 The potential of Blended learning lies in its ability to individualize education, optimize learning pace, and enhance teacher effectiveness, calling for collective effort to make it a reality.

Q & A

What is the main idea proposed in the context of computers in the classroom?

The main idea is the potential of having every child with their own teacher, and how computers could help achieve the positive aspects of personalized education.

What is Blended Learning as defined in the script?

Blended Learning is defined as a model where students learn from computers for about 25% or more of their day, distinct from online courses and involving a mix of traditional classroom instruction and computer-based learning.

How did the introduction of a teacher in an online course setting impact student success rates in Fresno, California?

When a teacher was available to support students in an online course setting, the pass rate increased from 23% to 43%, and further to 95% when students had a full day with teacher support.

What are the different models of Blended Learning mentioned in the script?

The models mentioned are the rotational model, the laboratory model, the open classroom model, and the flipped classroom model.

Why is the face-to-face interaction considered important in Blended Learning?

Face-to-face interaction is crucial as it allows for personalized support, immediate feedback, and the ability to address issues that cannot be managed solely through computer-based learning.

What is the difference between using technology in education and teaching technology as a subject?

Using technology in education refers to leveraging computers as tools for learning, whereas teaching technology as a subject focuses on skills like coding, managing websites, and using software applications.

Can you provide examples of programs that students use in Blended Learning environments?

Examples include Accelerated Reader for reading level assessment and tracking, ST Math for math comprehension, and Khan Academy and Code Academy for free online instruction in various subjects.

How does Blended Learning aim to make students more independent learners?

Blended Learning allows students to learn at their own pace, receive immediate feedback, access lessons from home, and submit assignments digitally, thus fostering independence.

What are the financial considerations for implementing Blended Learning in schools?

Blended Learning can be more cost-effective than traditional educational systems by increasing class sizes for computer-based learning or using coaches, tutors, or parents instead of additional teachers.

What are the key factors for successful implementation of Blended Learning according to the script?

Key factors include flexibility to change approaches, commitment to support and training, the right mindset to value the learning process over simple completion, and the crucial role of teachers as orchestrators of learning.

Why is teacher involvement considered even more important in a Blended Learning environment?

In a Blended Learning environment, teachers act as critical thinkers and innovators, selecting appropriate programs, targeting skills not covered by computers, and creating engaging, hands-on projects to complement online learning.