Session : Learning Strategies and Independent Learning ThroughTechnology
Group : 1
Time
: 11.00-12.30
Date : 16 October 2014
Tutor : Andrew Steele
REPORT:
The
lesson started by the tutor asking each and every one of us to think about
something we had learnt recently. The answers given varied from “How I learnt
to use CLIL in my classroom” and “How I learnt to ride a horse”.
We
were then asked on how we learnt what we did. Amongst the response to that
question was:
a.
in a class
b.
online learning
c.
taught by a friend
d.
via a book
e.
through
demonstration
f.
by practical
experience
What
was concluded here, is that learning styles differ from learning strategies. It
also differs from one individual to another. Learning strategies are how
student learn a new content. These strategies change at different times of
learning. The strategy you use before, during and after a lesson may change as
the contents you learn change. A worksheet was given where a table was to be
completed with strategies used at different stages of learning.
Next
we were exposed to the word meta-cognition which is thinking about thinking. It
can be broken into five parts being:
a.
preparing and
planning for learning
b.
selecting and
using strategies
c.
monitoring
learning
d.
integrating
strategies
e.
evaluating
learning
We
were then told to work in pairs and complete a table on strategies to use for
each of the five parts of meta-cognition.
The
next stage of the lesson was using new media to encourage autonomous students.
We discussed in groups how to use various types of media to promote independent
learning. Among the media types discussed were blogs, wikis, social
bookmarking, twitter, and facebook.
A
general discussion was held on how teachers use different types of media in their
teaching and learning process. Ideas were given and shared amongst the
participants which were very beneficial and new to many of us.
REFLECTION
This lesson was not new to the participants.
Many new of the existence of these media. But ways of manipulating these media
for teaching was something new to some. The convenience in spreading
information, assignment, getting in touch with teachers and peers, getting
feedback were among the possible ways of using these media types.
As we listened to the way some lecturers used it in their lessons, some of us realised that it is a good way for those who are normally reluctant to speak up or see their lecturer to voice out their views.
Besides that, it also reduced the amount of
paperwork and quantity of paper used for lecturers as well as assignments.
Lecturers need to carry stacks of assignments and storage problem was also
solved.
Another point in the use of these media types
is the less confident and shy students are able to make themselves heard. It
also helped in building ties amongst the students as they got to know more
people via these social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
This type of learning strategy is suitable to
enable students to be independent learners. They can respond, check and get
feedback conveniently anywhere and at any time.
The only drawback in the use of this
technique is the lack of technology or facilities. This will make it difficult
for everyone to participate in activities or information put on the media.
RECOMMENDATION
A survey should be carried out to make sure
students are equipped with proper gadgets to ensure everyone is able to
participate in the teaching and learning process.
Lesson such as these should
be monitored by a moderator to ensure its validity and relevance to the members
of the site. The moderator should also ensure that no sensitive or irrelevant
posts are put up to be viewed or read. “A lesson well taught and learnt will
leave a mark for forever”.
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