Now, as much as I enjoyed the presentation I have many questions about the practicality of some of the ideas. One that jumped out at me was what Cofino discussed about the concept of "mobility." She used the customization of food in South American countries as an example of the needs of the individual being met. She asserted that, as educators, we should, 'strive to provide individuals a personalized learning experience." I just shook my head at that thought. Sure, in a perfect world it would be wonderful. However, there is no way this will be a reality...none.
Customizing a food order is immensely different than providing individual learning experiences for each student. In fact, now that I reflect, I almost find the assertion insulting. Sure, customized learning experiences would be wonderful, but the notion is impractical.
"Learning doesn't stop when the afternoon bell rings." I embraced this concept years ago and I'm glad to hear Cofino echo this sentiment. She brings up the idea that students and teachers should have a schedule to meet their needs. This is a concept that I see as more feasible than the 'customization' idea mentioned earlier. Technology is increasingly making it more possible for teachers to operate at any hour, not just those confined between bells.
Lastly, Cofino broached the subject of the need for collaboration. She states that many of today's problems are too complex for teachers to solve alone. While I consider my problem solving skills to be Sherlock Holmes'esque,' I do agree that the occasional chiming in from the Watsons of the world is necessary. Collaboration is beneficial when done properly!
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I agree with AMiller's response to the Cofino piece about the personalization of learning. While technology may create new opportunities for learning, we cannot be expected to personalize instruction for 100-130 students. Sure, we can and do differentiate between groups of students but the fear in education, especially for newer teachers would be that the educational system as it is emerging could wear down the educators. If we were expected to personalize instruction for large numbers plus be available to comment on blogs of students and return parent e-mails, our lack of a personal life would rapidly become no personal life. There has to be a reasonable balance. Perhaps AMiller could bring his Sherlock-esque skills and enlighten us on how to strike that perfect balance with the 21st century skills.
ReplyDeleteIn the end, collaboration could enlighten us on how to accomplish this personalization while maintaining the aspects of our traditional educational system that make sense for our students.
Personalization of education that overwhelms the teacher is untenable; however, if you could personalize and not be overwhelmed (perhaps even be more efficacious) ah, now that would be magic worth embracing. Don't you agree?
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