While engaging in this activity my companion was the task, my
computer, the tutorial, my phone and myself. ‘Far away’ were the tutor and my
fellow course mates. I worked largely with the first three and less obviously
with the last two. I started working in Kampala and carried my laptop and WIFI
along to Lira (up country) where I am now writing this.
What then is a learning space? Is it different from a
learning environment? I needed learning
space-(Physical) someplace anywhere where I could sit and work freely with concentration.
This space also included having a laptop (hardware and software), electricity
and a reliable network.
I would not have successfully
produced the video annotation if the learning environment was not conducive: the
factors that influence learning - learning resources and technology, means of
teaching and modes of learning (the CCTI platform), and connections to societal
and global contexts, human behavioral and cultural dimensions, including the
vital role of emotion in learning. Therefore, Space
becomes environment when it is stretched to include a broader sense of place,
as well as the people who participate and the culture in which these elements
are situated. The idea of environment invites a wider range of participants:
administrators of various levels and functions, faculty, guest experts,
librarians, IT staff, instructional designers, and learning theorists and
researchers. The term implies a multiplicity of players, forces, and systems
interacting. Environment is dynamic—changing in response to influences from
outside or arising inside.
In doing all this I became a producer of knowledge, my skills
of critical thinking and creativity were stretched taut, I collaborated with my
course mates and shared my video on you tube. I conclude with this thought: technologies and teaching
methods will continue to evolve means that the job of creating effective
learning environments is a journey, not a destination.
The
lingering question here is: Is Uganda ripe enough to allow traditional
classrooms change into a highly flexible production studio?
Thanks Nellie, you have defined well the learning spaces.
ReplyDeleteHallo Nellie, by moving away from Kampala and working far away in Lira you clearly demonstrated the principle that a learning environment can occur anywhere and learning need not be limited to the walls of a classroom.
ReplyDeleteYes, the transitions going on ať this rate will eventually allow the country get ripe, just give it time
ReplyDeleteAn original reflection. Good one Nellie.
ReplyDelete