Module 8 Activity 3: Learning Labs

Learning Labs

Learning labs are a good thing once they are carefully managed and monitored and the users (both teachers and learners) know and follow the rules which govern their use and to use them for the right purposes.
Having a cluster of computers in a single space is often used for the development of ICT "literacy" skills- that is teaching the subject of Information Technology. This also is a good thing but I also believe that it would be more beneficial to not only have computers in a lab setting but that they should be placed in every classroom as well. In the classroom, teachers of individual subject areas would be able to use the technology as a teaching and learning tool in their respective disciplines to help improve and enhance learning.

With the plethora of digital devices  available including laptops, I pads, tablets as well as software that can be used for teaching and learning consideration should be given towards integrating the use of these personal tools into the ICT integration in the classroom process. This means that the learning labs will be extended beyond the physical space and become 'mobile' and thus learning will take place wherever and whenever possible. With innovative initiatives such as this Schools can begin to craft their own ICT implementation plan for the successful use of ICT in their schools.

Module 8 Activity 2: Learning in ICT-enabled Classrooms

Learning in ICT-enabled Classrooms

     The use of ICT in the classroom can empower both teachers and students in terms of the teaching and learning process, promote change and foster the development of 21st Century learning skills and thus creating a well rounded child for the world we live in today. It can transform the teaching and learning process from being a teacher dominated environment to a student centered on which will result in  opportunities for the students to learn in developing their creativity, their problem solving skills and abilities, reasoning and communication skills as well as other higher order thinking skills. This can be achieved through the use of the internet and the WWW where a wealth of  up-to-date information can be found. They are exposed to a wide variety of sources and therefore are able to learn at their convenience and pace.

     However this will only be successful if ICT  is used appropriately by the teacher to compliment his/her existing  teaching practices and there are adequately available technological equipment including computer hardware and software and other devices such as over head projectors, interactive white boards, flat screen televisions, digital cameras, printers and so on.

     In Antigua and Barbuda efforts are being made to begin the ICT integration process in all the schools. The government initiative of giving Teachers a laptop, making available electronic tablets to students and providing internet access in school is a step in the right direction as we have begun to see some benefits.

     However, it must be noted that the ICT integration process despite its numerous benefits two major hindrances which prevent its implementation are the lack of enough hardware and software ( need to implement the 1 laptop per child initiative) as well as the need for adequate training of teachers to be able to use the technology to assist them in using it effectively in their classrooms. Some teachers are equip with ICT skills and are doing their best to implement the integration process while others have begun to embrace the change. Yet there are still others who are are resisting the change.

     As teachers who are already integrating the technology in our classes, not only do we need to continue to adapt the technology to suit our particular needs but we need to invite other teachers into our classes to experience and be a part of our class sessions so that they can see the effectiveness of the powerful nature of this tool and will want to become a part of the change process.

Learning in an ICT-enabled classroom is:

Module 8 Activity 1: Classroom Management Principles

According to Rebecca Alber in her article "Ten Tips for Classroom Management", if students "are engaged, they are managed." I agree with this statement. However for this to take place there must be rules and guidelines put in place by the teacher to govern the use of the classroom and the use of the tools and machines in the classroom as well. Both the teacher and students must take ownership of the classroom.

      As an Educator  for the past 27 years, to make management of the classroom easy I am of the opinion that  the teacher must first build a positive and safe learning community. This can be done by first building good relationships: teacher-students, student-student, thus creating a classroom community with a friendly  environment. I also take the time out to  get to know their names and to call them by their names when asking questions or asking them to do a task and to commend them when they do and say things correctly.

     I usually greet the students at the classroom door, inviting them in with a smile and involve them in designing and laying out of the classroom (visual arts lab). They are then exposed to the rules which govern the classroom, their expectations ans consequences of the rules if the expectations are not adhered too. I also ask if they have any additional rules they would like to add, and would discuss and add them if they will help in the management of the class. Doing this helps tremendously in having fewer behavioural problems. It also means that they knowing what is expected of them will be ready and eager to learn and will be focused on the tasks at hand. To conclude one can therefore say that the most important element of classroom management is the TEACHER'S PRESENCE.