After having read both chapters in the text, I understand that self-directed learning (SDL) involves engaging the learner in challenging activities where he/she will complete these challenges and simultaneous develop the personal knowledge and skills required in the process. It is important that students are equipped with the skill of self-directed learning and in particular the use of ICT in such endeavours in the 21st century.
From the text, I've understood that using ICT in self-directed learning is not about:
- e-learning at designated portals
- using PowerPoint presentations in the presenting group work
- playing with computers for chats etc.
Rather, using ICT in self-directed learning is about utilising the various applications/systems to facilitate the students' learning in terms of causal reasoning, analogies, expressive and experiential and in problem solving.
I wish that mp3 had been around when I was in school. It certainly would have been beneficial if such skills would have been taught and acquired at an earlier age. Learning is of greater benefit if there is personal stake in the acquisition of knowledge.
Likewise, collaborative learning is not about group work. It is actually defined to be ''a social process whereby students learn through interacting with others''. It is about establishing common learning goals and going about to construct knowledge together. ICT will be used to facilitate collaborative learning as tools in face-to-face settings, accessing and working on common documents and in the negotiation of meaning.
Aside from the collective acquisition of knowledge, students would also learn the skills of teamwork and interpersonal communication which are vital once they leave the school environment and enter their respective workplaces.
As student teachers, we must embrace these concepts of learning and be suitably equipped in order to guide and engage our students appropriately.
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