Delivering different pedagogical approaches using myBU

1. Delivering different pedagogical approaches using myBU

2. Aims Aims: This workshop is designed to raise awareness of various pedagogical approaches. It will focus on how these approaches can be delivered through myBU; as well as discussing some strengths and weaknesses of online materials and delivery.

3. Objectives Objectives: By the end of the workshop participants: • Will be aware of a range of different approaches • Will have reviewed their own use of the VLE • Will have discussed the use of Narrative based approaches online and in group • Will have looked at Problem based learning, with an emphasis on how tools (Wiki, Fora, blogs) are suitable for Problem based learning approaches. • Will be aware of the strengths and weaknesses of delivering particular materials online (interactive materials and methods compared to didactic media)

4. Constructivism • Constructivism is a concept that lends itself very well to Blended- and Online Learning. It can incorporate a range of different approaches, and places the emphasis on the learner - they should seek out knowledge, and evaluate what they find. • Criticisms include the fact that some learners may find this frustrating, and are accustomed to a more didactic approach. { } Narrative-based teaching Basic concepts / Background delivered traditionally Deeper understanding of the subjects or concepts being taught Problem-based learning Resource-based learning Collaborative learning

5. Narrative-based teaching Narrative-based teaching describes the situation where exercises and activities are based around a narrative ‘theme’. In higher level courses, the narrative is not usually a simple story, it may be a history, a model, or a case study. The common factor is that a common thread drives the programme, and that learning objectives are based around this thread. Reasons for using a narrative: - Providing a context within a story makes the subject easier to understand and remember. - The narrative provides a structure - if it is a history, for instance, objects can be laid out along a time line. - To provide a familiar format. If the subject, and the medium (i.e. blended learning) are unfamiliar, placing them within a story will bring them within the experience of most people. - To make the subject more interesting. Narrative can be a way to make the subject 'come alive' for students. Narrative Learning objectives

6. Problem-based Learning This approach involves setting the learners a problem and not giving them enough information to solve it. The students need to demonstrate skills such as planning how to solve the problem and research skills. Advantages: - Increased motivation: The student is working with a tangible goal in mind - Development of problem solving skills - Increased student responsibility - Interactive and engaging: Students need to be very active in this type of learning, finding out where to look, discussing their ideas, and applying them. This activity would tend to lead to a deeper understanding of the problem. Drawbacks: - Uncertainty on the part of students: The students may be unsure how to proceed, and need guidance from the tutor. - Students can waste time researching 'dead ends', or trying to deliver what the tutor 'wants', rather than focussing on the problem. Set problem Students Identify what they need to know Research for solution Apply solution

7. Resource-based learning Providing students with a pool of resources, and letting them locate their own, is effective in a number of ways. It encourages them to be curious, it develops their information skills and exposes them to different views. It is an active learning strategy that the students can tailor to fit to their own interests and styles. Library Forums Information Technology allows us to access almost unlimited amounts of resources - but don’t neglect paper-based media such as books and journals. Company Websites Databases Journals Wikipedia Google / Google Scholar

8. myBU contains all the tools that you need for fora, interactive chat, or a virtual classroom Chatrooms enable synchronous communication over the web Using free VoIP tools such as Skype and Instant Messenger you can set up conference calls over the net Web 2.0 sites such as Flickr and YouTube allow participants to share photos and films with friends, contacts and special interest groups Collaborative learning The first impressions people think of when faced with E-learning is that it is a solitary activity. In fact computers and the internet provide the learner with an incredible range of opportunities for interaction, not just with their fellow students, but with the world at large. Interactions The Web enables more forms of communication than ever before Talkboards allow us to discuss at a national or international level

9. Following up You have now reached the final frame of this presentation. We hope it has provided you with some inspiration, and some strategies you might use in the units that you deliver. If you require any further information regarding delivery of these strategies, EDS will be happy to help. In the meantime, here are some suggestions for ways you might like to follow this up: Problem Based Create/adapt a unit of your own to embody what you have seen Resource Based Find out more about the concepts and ideas we have covered Collaborative Feedback on the unit discussion board any comments on this unit Narrative Tell us about your experiences!