What is knowledge? Certainly we brought similar
key ideas from our different viewpoints. Changing, evolving, contextual, collaborative,
creative, applicable were common themes. Content + context is vital. Having the
skills and critical thinking to know when and how to apply or use that knowledge is
key. Our group found knowledge a bit like a cloud - forever changing as it absorbed and reacted to the world and elements around it.
As someone who has recently changed careers completely I’ve
had to challenge these aspects of myself and have found it stimulating
and exciting. I was keen to learn, expand my knowledge and perform well. My level of motivation may be somewhat higher than some of my
students however and I’d love to discover and/or create more opportunities for
that spark for learning and desire to know
to be evidenced in my classes.
Utilising technology as a tool is certainly a
great way to access that however it is only
a tool. As a graphic designer I learnt the best designs were created by hand
and then developed by the computer itself. I’d like to think that this analogy
applies to learning in the school environment also. The spark, the idea, the
jumping off point for knowledge is through content, discussion, sharing,
questioning, inquiring – as a teacher I can help facilitate that. This evolution of technology is just that - not a revolution - a good teacher is still required for effective learning.
Something I have already reflected on in my own
practice is that sometimes I need to let my students learn instead of trying to
teach them all the time. As I gain experience and confidence I have found that
hand-over a bit easier and hope to develop that.
The past few weeks after junior exams has been a
great opportunity to try out some different techniques in the classroom without
the pressure of assessment timelines. One of my classes is tasked with
producing and filming a news segment including current affairs, sports, weather
and education reports. Another is creating a film outlining a resource issue
and promoting an event designed to raise awareness of that issue. There is a
wide range of responses being created, from websites to posters and songs. I
look forward to sharing some of their work soon.
