339 blog

Blog Post 5

November 20, 2024 /

The Role of AI and Emerging Technologies in Transforming Education

photo provided by V-Flat World

Hello everyone! It’s Andy, gearing up for our final blog post in this journey through EDCI 339. Today, we’re delving into how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging tech are reshaping the educational landscape. From predictive tools to ethical considerations, let’s explore what the future holds for us as learners and educators.

Predictive Technologies and AI in Education

AI is already making waves in classrooms, providing tools that tailor the learning experience. Predictive technologies use AI algorithms to identify patterns and predict student outcomes. For example, platforms like Coursera (an online learning platform offering courses, specializations, and degrees from universities and companies worldwide) and Duolingo (a language learning app that gamifies the process of mastering new languages) employ AI to customize learning paths for users based on their interactions with content.

One AI tool that caught my attention is the Intelligent Tutoring System (ITS). ITS utilizes AI to offer personalized feedback and guidance, mimicking one-on-one tutoring. This technology can adapt to various learning styles and paces, enhancing the educational journey. This YouTube video provides a great overview of Intelligent Tutoring Systems:

 

Benefits of AI in Education

AI in education offers numerous benefits, fundamentally altering how we teach and learn. One major advantage is personalized learning. AI can tailor education to fit students’ individual needs, preferences, and learning speeds, ensuring that no one gets left behind—a stark contrast to traditional methods that cater to the average learner.

Moreover, AI can automate administrative tasks, lightening educators’ workloads and allowing them to focus more on teaching itself. Grading systems powered by AI, for instance, can handle repetitive evaluation tasks, providing quick feedback to students. Additionally, AI helps create adaptive learning environments that respond in real-time to students’ performance, thereby facilitating a more engaging and immersive learning process.

Harvard Business Review published an insightful article titled [“The Business of Artificial Intelligence”](https://hbr.org/2018/06/augmented-intelligence-the-next-stage-in-ai), which explores these benefits in greater depth. The article asserts that AI stands as a pillar for productivity and efficiency within educational settings.

Challenges of AI in Education

Despite its promise, AI’s integration into education faces several hurdles. Cost is a significant barrier—schools might not have the financial resources needed to implement AI technology widely. There is also a skills gap, as educators require training to effectively employ AI tools.

Another challenge is the potential dependency on technology, which can dull critical thinking and problem-solving skills. To tackle these issues, investment in technology infrastructure and robust training programs for teachers are essential. Engaging stakeholders in dialogue about integrating AI effectively could also ensure smoother adoption.

Ethical Considerations of AI in Education

AI brings about ethical concerns, notably around data privacy, transparency, and bias. Sensitive student data needs stringent protection to prevent misuse. Transparency in AI algorithms ensures fairness, while biases must be addressed to prevent reinforcing stereotypes.

Educators need to prioritize these ethical concerns by adhering to strict data protection policies. Developing AI standards and regulations that emphasize transparency and fairness can help maintain ethical accountability in educational environments.

Benedict du Boulay  discusses this topic thoroughly in the paper [“Artificial Intelligence in Education and Ethics.“](https://www.j-ets.net/ETS/journals/24_2/9.pdf). It outlines guidelines for maintaining ethical use of AI, which educators could follow to responsibly integrate AI technologies.

Future Directions in EdTech

Looking ahead, technologies beyond AI are set to impact education significantly. Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are prime examples—VR immerses users in a fully digital environment, while AR overlays digital information in the real world. These technologies offer immersive learning experiences, enabling students to explore content in a more interactive manner, which static textbooks can’t always achieve.

photo provided by Vation Ventures

Over the next decade, I can see these technologies enhancing engagement, improving educational access, and empowering educators with better tools. Their synergy with AI could herald new methodologies in teaching and learning, making education more adaptive and inclusive.

AI and emerging technologies hold immense potential for transforming the educational ecosystem. With careful integration and a steadfast commitment to ethical practices, we can harness these tools to enrich learning experiences and educational opportunities for everyone.

Thanks for accompanying me on this exploration through educational tech in our EDCI 339 course!

References:
-Erik Brynjolfsson and Andrew McAfee (2017). [“The Business of Artificial Intelligence”](https://hbr.org/2018/06/augmented-intelligence-the-next-stage-in-ai). Harvard Business Review.
Du Boulay, Benedict. (2023). Artificial Intelligence in Education and Ethics. 10.1007/978-981-19-2080-6_6.
– Intelligent Tutoring Systems Overview. YouTube, 2023. [here](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARlHxzL-RlE).

Blog Post 4

November 5, 2024 /

Exploring Open Pedagogy and Open Educational Resources: A Paradigm Shift in Education

Photo provided by Online Learning Consortium  https://onlinelearningconsortium.org/leading-the-change-towards-oer/

Hello everyone! As we navigate through the evolving educational landscape, the concepts of Open Pedagogy and Open Educational Resources (OER) offer a fresh and inclusive approach to teaching and learning. This module has really opened my eyes to the incredible potential of these concepts and their impact on global education. Here, I’ll explore Open Pedagogy, the role of OER, global trends, Creative Commons Licensing, and how these elements come together to contribute to an inclusive learning environment.

Understanding Open Pedagogy

Open Pedagogy is a student-centered approach to education characterized by collaboration, transparency, and the co-creation of knowledge. Unlike traditional teaching methods where the instructor is the central knowledge authority, Open Pedagogy encourages students and educators to collaboratively build and share knowledge. By involving students as active participants rather than just passive consumers of information, we foster a deeper engagement with the learning material.

An example of Open Pedagogy is an open course where students contribute to developing the course materials or engage in projects with real-world applications. This not only adds to students’ learning experience but also presents educators with different perspectives, leading to higher quality teaching strategies.

The Role and Impact of Open Educational Resources (OER)

Open Educational Resources (OER) are teaching and learning materials freely available for everyone to use, distribute, and modify. The transformative power of OER lies in their capacity to enhance education’s accessibility and equity. OER eliminates the cost barriers associated with textbooks and course materials, allowing learners everywhere to access quality education.

Platforms like MERLOT (Multimedia Educational Resource for Learning and Online Teaching, a repository for online learning materials) and OER Commons (a digital public library offering open educational resources from universities worldwide), educators can access a plethora of resources and contribute to the global educational repository, promoting a culture of sharing and inclusivity.

Merlot's logo

MERLOT logo https://oep.merlot.org/about.html
OER commons logo https://oercommons.org/about

A study titled “The Impact of Open Educational Resources on Various Student Success Metrics” by Colvard (2018) supports the positive effects of OER, showing improved student performance and satisfaction rates when OER are integrated into curricula. I recommend reading it over if you want to dive deeper into the topic, link to study: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/369752074_The_Impact_of_Open_Educational_Resources_on_Various_Student_Success_Metrics

 

Global Trends in OER

The worldwide buzz around Open Educational Resources (OER) is really taking off, and it’s all about making education more accessible and inclusive. Across the globe, schools and universities are jumping on the OER train, recognizing it as a game-changer for teaching and learning. A standout effort in this space is UNESCO’s OER Recommendation, which guides countries in adopting and advancing open resources for education.

Countries like Canada and New Zealand are leading the charge, pushing forward with policies that promote OER to boost educational accessibility and equity. These nations understand that OER can cut down on costs and provide teachers with the flexibility to tailor resources to suit diverse student needs, making education more personalized and effective.

Of course, there are a few bumps in the road. Not everyone has equal access to the necessary tech to make full use of OER, thanks to the digital divide that still exists. Plus, some educators might need a bit more training and encouragement to dive into creating and using open resources. But here’s the silver lining—OER offers tons of opportunities. Schools can rethink their curriculums to better fit the digital age, and educators can tap into a massive pool of shared resources and global collaborations. As more and more people join the OER movement, the dream of making learning truly accessible and adaptive for everyone is getting closer every day.

Understanding Creative Commons Licensing

Creative Commons Licensing can really change the game for sharing educational materials. These licenses are crucial for Open Educational Resources (OER) because they let us use, adapt, and share educational goodies in a way that respects the original creators.

I found this chart very helpful in describing the different types of licenses:

 

by Terezinha Marcondes Diniz Biazi 
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/The-six-Creative-Commons-licenses-Source_fig1_354453019

Understanding how these licenses work is super important, especially if, like me, you’re into combining fields like engineering and linguistics. For example, the Creative Commons Attribution license (CC BY) is fantastic—it lets others modify and use your work, even for commercial purposes, as long as they give you credit.

In a future where I might be teaching either engineering or linguistics, I’d love to use the CC BY license for my course resources. This means my students could tweak and share what I’ve created to fit their learning needs, and other educators could enhance it further. This approach not only expands access to learning but also fuels collaboration and innovation.

In a nutshell, Creative Commons Licensing opens up a world of possibilities for creating and sharing knowledge. It’s all about building a community where learning resources are flexible and freely available, which is something I’m really passionate about pursuing in the realms of engineering and linguistics!

 

Attributes of Open Pedagogy

Key attributes of Open Pedagogy, such as collaboration, transparency, and student-centered learning, reshape the educational experience. Collaboration is realized through projects on platforms like Slack (an online collaboration hub for better work coordination) and Padlet (a virtual whiteboard for collaborative activities), ensuring that learning is not isolated to individual efforts but a communal pursuit. Transparency in open pedagogy encourages clear expectations and open access to course materials, fostering trust and inclusivity within the class environment.

Implementing these attributes could involve students actively participating in course design, using Wikis for collaborative projects, or engaging in open discussions on these platforms. This approach not only enhances learning but also prepares students to thrive in a collaborative and open world.

Open Pedagogy and OER paves the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and collaborative educational landscape. As educators and learners, this approach allows us to reshape education into a truly participatory process enriching the experience for everyone involved.

For those interested in further exploring Open Educational Resources, the video below by David Wiley offers in-depth insights into OER practices and global impact:

 

Thank you for joining me on this journey into the world of Open Pedagogy and OER. I’m excited to continue exploring these innovative educational practices!

 

References:

Colvard, Nicholas & Watson, C & Park, Hyojin. (2018). The Impact of Open Educational Resources on Various Student Success Metrics. 262-276. 

David Wiley. “Understanding OER: Practices and Initiatives.” YouTube Video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3CY6RR4uns

October 17, 2024 /

Embracing UDL, Accessibility, and Ethical Practices in Digital Education

 

Hello everyone! As I delve deeper into the world of educational technology and its myriad facets, this module has been particularly enlightening. We’ve explored Universal Design for Learning (UDL), accessibility in online settings, and the ethical considerations that are crucial in the digital age. I’m eager to share my insights and reflections on these critical topics.

 

Understanding Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

 

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a pedagogical framework that aims to optimize teaching and learning for all individuals by providing multiple means of engagement, representation, and action/expression. The essence of UDL is inclusivity. It challenges educators to anticipate the diverse needs of all learners and provides them with varied opportunities to grasp content effectively.

For me, UDL is like laying out a rich tapestry of learning experiences where every student can find pathways that resonate with their unique learning styles, preferences, and needs. In a physical classroom, this might translate into offering auditory, visual, and kinesthetic activities. In a digital environment, UDL can mean creating multimedia resources, such as videos, articles, and interactive simulations, to cater to various preferences. By doing so, educators pave the way for more inclusive classrooms that acknowledge and value diversity.

 

Ensuring Accessibility in Online Settings

 

Accessibility in online settings is not just a box to tick; it’s a fundamental right. It ensures that all learners, regardless of their abilities, can access and benefit from digital resources. Some critical components include providing transcripts for audio content, using screen reader-friendly web pages, and ensuring keyboard navigability.

I’ve noticed how accessibility plays a key role in my learning, particularly when using online platforms that offer text-to-speech options. Tools like these not only support diverse learning needs but also enhance overall engagement and comprehension, allowing me to consume content in multiple forms.

I found this study by Wood et al. very interesting: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5494021/. It’s a meta-analysis examining how Text-to-Speech and other read-aloud tools can enhance reading comprehension for individuals with reading difficulties. The study explores the significance of integrating such tools, highlighting how the inclusion of a simple option can significantly help comprehension and accessibility for those struggling with traditional reading methods. It points to the potential for technology to bridge gaps in learning and provide equal opportunities for success in reading.

To explore more about enhancing accessibility in digital spaces, you might find the video below by San Francisco State University very insightful.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjIRQ4nMkAI

Navigating the Ethical Challenges of EdTech

 

With the rise of educational technology, ethical challenges have become more pronounced. Privacy concerns, data security, and equitable access are significant issues that educators must address. The collection of student data for personalized learning, while beneficial, can border on an invasion of privacy. This dilemma requires educators to find a delicate balance between leveraging technology for improved learning experiences and protecting students’ personal information and rights.

 

One strategy could involve transparent communication about data usage, paired with robust cybersecurity measures. Exploring case studies and discussions in forums such as the EdSurge Podcast can provide deeper understanding and varied perspectives about these challenges.. I’ve shared a video below by them that discusses a lot we’ve learned so far.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGHCXiLziQ0

 

 

 

Ethical Considerations in Digital Interactions

 

The digital world requires us to maintain ethical standards akin to those in the physical world. Respectful and inclusive behavior online ensures that our interactions uphold dignity and equity. Whether in professional communities or social media, practicing empathy and maintaining etiquette is essential.  As digital citizens, we have a responsibility to foster an online environment that is respectful and supportive. This ethical mindfulness not only enhances our own experiences but also builds a healthier digital community.

 

Applying UDL and Accessibility Principles in Practice

 

Reflecting on a learning environment I’ve been part of, I realize there were gaps in addressing UDL and accessibility. Although there were diverse resources available, not all materials were designed with accessibility in mind. Improvements like incorporating closed captions and offering alternative formats for assignments could have greatly supported diverse learners.

Overall, embracing UDL and accessibility, while being aware of ethical considerations, enriches the educational journey for all. It nudges us toward creating a learning ecosystem that respects and thrives on diversity, paving the way for equal opportunities in education.

 

Thank you for joining me on this exploration of UDL, digital accessibility, and ethics in education. I’m excited to continue learning and sharing these insights as we move forward in this digital age!

 

References:

Wood SG, Moxley JH, Tighe EL, Wagner RK. Does Use of Text-to-Speech and Related Read-Aloud Tools Improve Reading Comprehension for Students With Reading Disabilities? A Meta-Analysis. J Learn Disabil. 2018 Jan/Feb;51(1):73-84. doi: 10.1177/0022219416688170. Epub 2017 Jan 23. PMID: 28112580; PMCID: PMC5494021.

Blog Post #2

October 5, 2024 /

Hello again! It’s Andy back with another exploration in our EDCI 339 course—this week diving deep into pedagogy, networked learning, impactful instruction techniques in digital spaces, learning theories, and how they intertwine within digital environments. 

 

Understanding Pedagogy

I’ve come to understand pedagogy not just as the method of teaching but as a multifaceted approach that influences my learning style. My preference leans slightly more toward hands-on approaches combined with discussions that challenge my understanding. Observing different methods in my academic journey, including lectures, seminars, and dynamic group projects, has shown me the impact different pedagogical strategies have on my ability to grasp and also retain knowledge.  Looking ahead, I can definitely see myself applying these insights into future teaching opportunities, maybe in leading workshops or webinars where I can mix interactive and traditional tactics for a more in depth learning experience.

 

 

Networked Pedagogy in Action

Networked pedagogy has definitely revolutionized my learning experience when reflecting on the past. In online forums and project collaboration tools, I’ve managed to connect with peers all around the world, discussing and sharing knowledge that helps our collective learning experience. One great example was during my project at the tech startup, where ideas and feedback would flow through digital channels, reflecting a real-time brainstorming session without its physical limitations. Platforms like GitHub (a platform for version control and collaboration that allows developers to share and manage their code projects) and Stack Overflow (a question and answer site for professional and enthusiast programmers to find solutions to their coding problems and contribute to the community by sharing knowledge.) have been instrumental during my time at the startup as they would provide a space where I can both seek guidance and also offer advice. Platforms like these really show how mutually beneficial relationships can be created through technology. 

 

Sugata Mitra emphasizes this idea really well in his TED Talk ‘Build a School in the Cloud’  where he discusses the potential of digital tools to facilitate a new era of educational pedagogy and how digital platforms can foster an autonomous learning environment that transcends traditional classroom settings. I would encourage anyone interested in the subject to check it out!

You can find the full Ted talk here:  https://www.ted.com/talks/sugata_mitra_build_a_school_in_the_cloud?subtitle=en  

 

Learning Theory: Connectivism

Of all learning theories in this module, connectivism intrigues me the most, resonating deeply with my experiences and how I learn. It’s all about how we learn through our connections with others and by encountering a variety of ideas. This fits perfectly with today’s digital world, where we can link up with so many different networks that help deepen our understanding. In online classes, this could mean designing courses that focus more on accessing a bunch of digital resources and encouraging more interaction among peers compared to just using traditional textbooks which I personally detest.

The Role of the Instructor in Online Learning

Reflecting on online instructors, I’ve realized that the best ones are really good at using tech to their advantage. In general, they’re flexible, super responsive, and definitely know their way around technology. The ones who really impress me are the ones that can make the most of all the digital tools out there to put together lessons that are both engaging and really supportive. They’re especially great at breaking down tough topics by building a welcoming online space where everyone feels okay to dive into deep discussions and are encouraged to learn from each other. You can always tell when the instructor makes an effort to implement the ideas of connectivism in their course and those are the ones who truly have my appreciation!

 

Navigating Digital Spaces

My experience with different online platforms has really shown me how crucial it is to be adaptable and ethical. I’ve had some awesome learning moments on sites like Zoom and Discord, where everyone comes together to share and learn. But it’s not always smooth sailing, figuring out the dos and don’ts about sharing too much information can be tricky as there are many nuances. Clarifying the rules with instructors when I’m not sure/ being considerate in my posts helps me not just fit in but actually add value to these digital communities.

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