Technology has been amazing. Over the last decade, we have seen such a dramatic change in technology that its impact on the way we learn and the knowledge that people have, has grown immensely. It is fair to say that this generation is the most knowledgeable generation there has ever been. Previously, knowledge was confined to having access to books and tutors where the opportunity was available; and usually with a fee. The World Wide Web is responsible for providing a portal that gives people access to information and knowledge, should they choose to seek it! People are fed a staggering amount of information online. Online TAFE courses have realized this and with the trend set to continue, it is important that learning institutions cater for the different learning styles and leverage the technology that is available.
Via Flickr
Information is catered for different learning styles.
Traditionally in the classroom, we would mainly learn by listening to the teacher and through text-books. While this method is effective for some, there are many others that prefer a learning style through practical and physical learning, as well as with those that learn through visual aids. Online, information is presented in various styles that appeal to the different learning types. Furthermore, it allows people to learn more passively. Some of these styles include the ones below.
Text and audio learning through e-books
E-readers and the Kindle are linked to Amazon’s library have made access to books and information readily available to anyone that has access to an internet connection. There are books and information that covers almost any topic. And the prices for the information are relatively inexpensive.
Audio learning through podcasts
Podcasts have continued to rise in popularity over the years. It is pretty much an audio library of interest topics that people can access via their Itunes account, and they can learn whilst they are doing something else. For example, they can learn while they are driving or commuting. Their classroom expands outside of the classroom, if you know what I mean.
Visual learning through YouTube and video portals
The power of Youtube and other video portals has spurred the growth in people’s knowledge on demand. If you don’t know how to do something, you would usually go onto Youtube and learn the new skill. Then ‘viola’, you have that skill as a part of your arsenal. Typically, the skill will be a walk through with someone who is somewhat of an expert. People may even find themselves learning passively, as it is just something else that they can do in their own time.
Visual and informative learning through blogs
Blogs have been impactful on the Internet. There are blogs that provide complete walkthroughs or step-by-step guides for the topics that people want to learn about. The styles vary and can incorporate text, videos, slideshares and even infographics.
Interactive learning through smart device applications
It is amazing how much a person can learn when what they are doing doesn’t feel like it is learning. Rather, it is fun! And ideally, learning should be fun or interesting to the person. Some of the applications that have been successful in doing this include DuoLingo, the language learning application that injects fun into language lessons with daily targets. Additionally, the students can choose to progress in their language skill at their own pace. They even provide a sense of competition with a leaderboard. Applications for social networks such as Vine and Snapchat has spurred their users to become creative with their video and editing development, in order to gain as much popularity as possible. These applications provide functions that allow people to learn and express their creativity.
With the advancement in technology, we have the ability to learn practical information on demand. Learning institutions are recognising this and are introducing it into their curriculum to maximize the learning potential of their students. The mantra to work smarter and not harder definitely appeals to this generation. And technology will help them achieve that.
from Darlene Milligan http://ift.tt/1JxWtAV via Transformational marketing
from Tumblr http://ift.tt/1DddDT6
No comments:
Post a Comment