Subject: task13 discussion: Possibility of application
Author: B
When reviewing the cases in the chapter it was interesting to note the different strategies in getting the students to learn on their own in a face-to-face situation, where expectations would be that to receive a lecture or to be trained and instructed through verbal communication. The case I would like to look at in regards to the advantages and disadvantages of its methodology and how it could be applied to e-learning is the case about “Teacher Training that Offers a New Style of Learning” (p.15?18), which is mentioned by the author as “no talking training” and “free practice time”. Firstly, the advantages of the method could be like any self-learning activity that moves away from the instructor-led group instruction, the pros of such a method are: ? Learning is at own pace and flexible with students free to explore the simulated “advanced learning information center”;
- Develop computer and internet skills when they study using the computer;
- Feeling more independent when they, the students choose their themes;
- Students become more confident when they successfully complete the course through the self-motivating training. On the other hand, the disadvantages of such training style is that:
- If students are not aware or prepared, they could have an adverse effect on their attitude to learn and become unmotivated;
- Since they choose their themes they may feel lost, since there is no structure or routine to their learning;
- Students may feel isolated and distant from their lecturer and fellow class mates as they are to learn on their own;
- There maybe some frustration with the software or technology, especially if the participants are not familiar with it or internet connection maybe slow or poor. These advantages and disadvantages could be easily applied to e-Learning since it was a computer-based training and the students were to learn on their own using the internet and computer software and resources. The major challenge in self-learning styles is to ensure the students are prepared and motivated to learn the material.