E-Learning for educators will provide you information, articles and research that will benefit all of us in educating the youth of today. We invite you to explore our site and hope that you will explore with us the future of e-learning and its place in our schools at this very moment.
E-Learning for Administrators and School Communities
Learning Zoom!
As schools and businesses look for ways to communicate with their constituents, many are turning to Zoom to facilitate this effort. While some are already familiar with its usage, we are all beginning to explore the power of this application. As we explore together I would offer this site for your information.
Our pages on E-Learning for Educators are a sincere effort to assist professional educators. In our schools today we need new strategies for effectively navigating our current climate and at the same time create the classrooms of the future. Seven years ago I began taking courses in e-learning from the University Of Wisconsin. I quickly realized what technology could do for our instructional design. When I tried to incorporate what I was learning into our programs, I was met with resistance. Today, while our schools are closed, we NEED technology to continue instruction. Resistance is no longer an option.
There were so many excuses emerging to avoid the future. Everything from “I think technology is the devil (which a parent actually said to me)” to “I am too old to learn.” Another favorite was “the kids know more about it than I do.” It seemed too easy, especially for educational veterans, to dismiss technology as a viable teaching tool. Many were afraid of losing control of their classrooms. In today’s world our schools need to really take a serious look at the role technology plays in our schools. We can no longer allow fear to hold us back in our efforts to provide all of our children the best education possible! Had we done this already, our journey through this crisis could have been easier.
Synchronous vs. Asynchronous
One of the drawbacks of e-learning according to some educators is that the social interaction and contact is missing. As an educator, I agree that being a part of a school community is very important for our youth to learn. Many valuable lessons are learned in the “hidden” curriculum that can only occur in a synchronous (face-to-face) setting. The fact that our students have access to technology 24/ 7 sometimes, makes face-to-face instruction even more important. As a seasoned educator I can attest to the important lessons students learn about relationships that occur within a school culture. This is one reason I have never been a big fan of home schooling young children. Although it may benefit some students, overall I have seen more students struggle when they attempt to go to high school.
Asynchronous (virtual) learning definitely has its place.
But like anything, balance is always best. Online learning has its place, especially in these times. The possibilities for creativity are endless. We can truly differentiate learning in the e-learning format.
When we emerge from this health crisis, I hope we continue to balance the two deliveries. If we can, it has huge implications for the school day itself. We can free ourselves from the constraints of time which has always tied our hands. Imagine courses that are delivered synchronously and asynchronously! Oh, the possibilities.
E-learning for Teachers
If you are a teacher, we can offer suggestions for you in the area of e-learning on THIS PAGE. Do not be afraid to register for this site and send me questions and feedback. I want to support you. You can also go to Heartlight Coaching and Consulting where you can also contact me.
Response Magic