Learning and NET

Does computer technology improve student learning and achievement? How, when and under what conditions? (Schacter and Fagnano 1999)

I agree with the authors that teachers need to be able to make informed judgements about which technologies are best suited to enhance student achievement.

How can we be better informed?

Often people who come to schools to talk about LMS, interactive whiteboards etc... have their own agenda. We need unbiased information. Is this possible?

I was interested in their discussion about the rhetoric around use of technologies emphasises the ease and efficiency of learning with technologies. However, this does not necessarily equate to deep and meaningful learning.

John Hattie says that an effect size of .40 or higher makes a significant impact. The meta-analyses in this report show effect sizes from .22 to .57. However, the defining factor of difference is not discussed. We are left to question what makes the biggest difference between successful and less successful teaching and learning using computer technology. Other research suggests that teacher implementation is the key factor of difference.

Web based collaborative technologies are based on socio-cultural, constructivist and cognitive theories rather than behaviourist, which fits more with the effective pedagogy of the NZC. If e-Learning is designed around these principles it can be powerful and transformative.

I use co-operative learning frequently in my lessons and I believe it boosts engagement, motivation and achievement. Students benefit from interacting with other learners.

We shouldn’t just buy in to e-Learning tools before we have had a chance to see how they support and reflect the learning theories we espouse.