REFLECTIONS @ 9 AUGUST 2009

I learnt that the Master Plans were and are designed to gear the country particularly the young towards a knowledge-based economy. I appreciate the systematic manner in which this is done. In my opinion, teachers as facilitators of learning must similarly model and embody such qualities of self-directed and collaborative learning if we are to help our students succeed in this brave new world.

In chapter 5 of the text, I learnt about the affordances of ICT tools for learning. In particular, in the educational setting, we are concerned with the pedagogical, social and the technological affordances. In simple terms, it means refers to the suitability of using the particular ICT tool for the topic or subject at hand. Basically, ICT should be used to enhance learning and not detract from the learning at hand. In addition, the tool to be used must place both students and teachers at ease and comfort in its use. Finally, the technological affordances refer to the “usability of an ICT tool’’. What does this mean? Personally, it must be user-friendly to facilitate the learning of those under their care.

Who would have thought that I would be back in school after having left it for yonks? Who would have thought that I would pen my reflections in a blog? Well, it's interesting and exciting.

Cheers to technology and a brave new world!