http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2011/08/etdcradle-conference-2011.html
Subject: Analysis of "20110801 ETD@CrADLe Conference 2011 - Open Educational Resources / Open Source Physics @ Singapore" Document
Overview: This document analyzes a blog post detailing a workshop at the ETD@CrADLe Conference 2011, focusing on Self-Directed Learning (SDL) and Collaborative Learning (CoL) within the context of Open Educational Resources (OER) and Open Source Physics in Singapore. The document also highlights the use of technology in education, particularly through interactive simulations.
Key Themes and Ideas:
- Emphasis on Self-Directed Learning (SDL) and Collaborative Learning (CoL): The core of the workshop and the document revolves around the importance of SDL and CoL as pedagogical approaches.
- SDL Definition: SDL is defined as "the individual takes the initiative and the responsibility for what occurs." It involves individuals actively selecting, managing, and assessing their own learning, at any time, in any place, through any means, and at any age. The document emphasizes a shift in schools towards focusing on SDL skills, processes, and systems rather than mere content coverage.
- Benefits of SDL: The document outlines several benefits of SDL, including:
- Content Choice: Learners choose what and who they learn from, aligned with their personal knowledge and preferences.
- Schedule Flexibility: Learners adapt learning to their personal schedules.
- Passion-Driven Learning: SDL fosters enjoyment and a deep sense of accomplishment.
- Potential for Productivity and Entrepreneurship: SDL is positioned as a pathway to expertise, entrepreneurial skills, and ultimately financial freedom as one leverages their expertise.
- CoL Definition: Collaborative learning (CoL) is presented as "synergistic collaboration among learners where 1+1 > 2".
- Relationship Between SDL and CoL: The document indicates the interconnectedness of SDL and CoL. "a SDL person will need to CoL with experts eventually to advance learning. It is the perhaps a inner and outer circle of motivation to learn." This suggests a progression from individual learning to collaboration for enhanced knowledge acquisition.
- Workshop Activity and Facilitator Role:
- Paper Heart Folding Task: The workshop employed a hands-on task (folding a paper heart) to exemplify SDL and CoL. Participants used online resources (YouTube tutorials) to complete the task.
- Learner's Actions: Participants "found a YouTube that is good, with hints text, audio of steps and well prepared by enthusiast, [they] followed the steps to create the paper heart."
- Facilitator's Role: The document poses questions about the facilitator's role, noting the simplicity of the task might not offer an optimal example for CoL. The workshop's design encouraged group members to "talk and share," fostering synthesis of ideas.
- Educational Reform and Shifting Focus: The document questions whether the message of "teach less, learn more" has changed. The author argues it's "always been the same call for educational reforms but the flavor or syntax or language has changed, the message is largely to same." This suggests a persistent need for educational reform towards student-centered learning, irrespective of the phrasing used.
- Technology as a Tool for Learning: The document highlights the integration of technology, particularly online resources (like YouTube) and interactive simulations, in the learning process.
- Open Source Physics (OSP): There is a clear emphasis on the use of Open Source Physics simulations as a learning tool.
- Easy JavaScript Simulations (EJS): The document frequently mentions EJS, a tool for creating interactive simulations. Links to various simulations (e.g., "Bar Magnet Field Line Simulator," "Three State Radioactive Decay," "Projectile Motion") suggest the extensive use of EJS for teaching and learning various topics in physics and mathematics.
- Tracker: The document references "Tracker," a video analysis tool, and notes many workshops have incorporated its use. This indicates the integration of tools beyond simply simulations.
- Open Educational Resources (OER): The title of the document and its content clearly advocate for the adoption of OER. This is further emphasized by the mention of the "Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 Singapore License" for the content, promoting its use and adaptation.
- Events and Workshops: The document includes links to numerous events, workshops and sharing sessions, emphasizing the continuous development and dissemination of ideas and resources in the Singapore educational context. These workshops cover diverse topics ranging from ICT integration in education, the use of video analysis, and the development of interactive learning materials with EJS.
- Awards and Recognition: The document also showcases awards and recognition received by the project, including "UNESCO King Hamad Bin Isa Al-Khalifa Prize for the Use of ICTs in Education" and various Ministry of Education awards. This suggests that the educational approaches being advocated have received positive acknowledgement and validation.
Quotes from the Source:
- "my quick answer is a self directed learning SDL can negotiate the future environment and economy better, a collaborative CoL person is one that will be needed to tap on and be part of the collective wisdom of the world."
- "the message of teach less, learn more change? my quick answer is it has always be the same call for educational reforms but the flavor or syntax or language has change, the message is largely to same."
- "In self-directed learning (SDL), the individual takes the initiative and the responsibility for what occurs."
- "a SDL person will need to CoL with experts eventually to advance learning."
Conclusion:
This document paints a picture of an educational landscape in Singapore that is actively embracing self-directed and collaborative learning, leveraging technology and open educational resources. The emphasis on SDL, CoL, and the utilization of tools like EJS and Tracker signifies a move towards more student-centered and inquiry-based approaches to learning. The frequent mention of workshops and sharing sessions reveals a strong commitment to disseminating these ideas and resources amongst educators. The recognition received by the project indicates that these methods are not only innovative but are also effective in the Singapore educational context.
ETD@CrADLe Conference 2011
http://www.crescent.edu.sg/cradle/dalc/
1. Getting Started
- In 10 minutes, fold a paper heart. From start to end, i need 20-30 minutes? found a poorly made YouTube, tear the square paper. etc.
- You can use the Internet as a resource.
awesome video http://youtu.be/nnV262Egucw Origami Heart (Folding Instructions)
For Students | For Teachers |
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3. Understanding Self-Directed & Collaborative Learning
1) What is SDL?
- You choose the content. Contrary to a curriculum designed by experts, you can pick and choose what you are going to learn, and who you are going to learn from, according to your personal level of knowledge and unique preferences.
- You determine the schedule. You can adapt your learning process to your personal agenda, without depending on time schedules imposed by others.
- You learn with passion. Since you are pursuing the topic that has always burnt in your heart, there is no place for boredom. Your main occupation in life should be fun!
- Self-directed learning produces a deep sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. You are engaged in what you were created to do!
- Self-directed learning will eventually lead to a productive life. After a season of delving into a subject with passion, the fruit will start to show. You will have gained a level of expertise.
- At this point you will naturally develop entrepreneurial skills. Now that you are an expert in your field, others will look to you for help, and be willing to pay for it too!
- The inevitable step is financial freedom. Voilá, your passion has become your career!
a SDL person will need to CoL with experts eventually to advance learning. It is the perhaps a inner and outer circle of motivation to learn.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duq1D2Ziz1s
mat leading the workshop |
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participants working on the task to make a paper heart |
mat leading the workshop |
mat leading the workshop |
mat leading the workshop |
mat leading the workshop |
mat leading the workshop |
another photo from boon keng
FAQ: Self-Directed and Collaborative Learning (SDL & CoL)
- What is Self-Directed Learning (SDL) and why is it important? SDL is a learning approach where individuals take the initiative and responsibility for their own learning. This involves choosing what, how, when, and where they learn. SDL emphasizes the development of skills, processes, and systems rather than simply covering content for tests. It's crucial because it enables learners to adapt better to future environments and economies by fostering intrinsic motivation and a deeper engagement with the subject matter. SDL also encourages personal challenge and the development of personal qualities needed to succeed.
- What are some key benefits of engaging in Self-Directed Learning (SDL)? SDL offers numerous advantages. Firstly, learners choose the content that aligns with their interests and knowledge level. Secondly, they control their learning schedule, making it adaptable to their personal needs and time. Most importantly, this approach encourages learning with passion and often results in a strong sense of accomplishment. It can also cultivate expertise, entrepreneurial skills, and ultimately lead to financial independence by transforming passion into a career.
- What are the characteristics of an effective self-directed learner? A self-directed learner exhibits ownership of their learning process, actively manages and monitors their progress, and seeks to extend their learning beyond initial requirements. This includes initiating personal projects and challenges and actively seeking out resources. They are driven by intrinsic motivation and are reflective about their progress and learning strategies.
- What is Collaborative Learning (CoL) and how does it complement SDL? Collaborative Learning (CoL) is a learning approach where individuals work together to achieve a shared learning goal. It is synergistic, ideally resulting in collective knowledge and learning that is greater than the sum of individual contributions (1+1 > 2). While SDL focuses on individual autonomy, CoL emphasizes the value of shared knowledge and interaction with others, particularly experts to accelerate growth. A self-directed learner will eventually need to collaborate with others to further their learning.
- What are some key characteristics of a collaborative learner? An effective collaborative learner actively participates in group processes. They are accountable for their individual and the group's learning and progress. Collaborative learners are also receptive to diverse ideas and perspectives, synthesizing their knowledge with that of others and willing to engage in open communication and negotiation.
- How are Self-Directed Learning and Collaborative Learning related? The relationship between SDL and CoL can be viewed as two interconnected circles of learning. SDL represents the inner circle, driven by personal motivation and agency, while CoL forms the outer circle where learners engage with experts and peers to advance their understanding. SDL creates the drive and basis to engage collaboratively with others to gain the full benefit of their knowledge.
- What was the paper heart activity meant to demonstrate, in the context of SDL and CoL? The paper heart folding activity was designed to showcase the process of learning, including the resources that learners can use (e.g. online videos) and the different ways they can approach learning. Although the exercise was simple and could be completed by one person, it highlighted that even in a short and straightforward task, learners can find resources, share ideas, and experience a form of learning and development. While not a strong example of CoL, it provided opportunities to discuss the collaborative process if done as a group.
- Besides SDL and CoL, what other resources or tools are mentioned in the source that can enhance learning? The source mentions a variety of tools and resources for learning, particularly in the context of physics and mathematics. These include simulations and interactive models created using tools like Easy JavaScript Simulations (EJS) and Tracker, a video analysis and modeling tool. It highlights the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) and Open Source Physics (OSP) simulations to facilitate inquiry-based learning. Additionally, the source references various workshops and learning experiences designed to train teachers on how to effectively utilize these technological resources in their teaching practice.