EDTC 5010 Chapter 1

 

 

           Within the educational system, there has been a change over the years from teacher centered instruction to student centered instruction.  Included in the style of student centered instruction is the practice of creating open-ended learning environments which include inquiry based learning, problem-based learning, and project based learning.  All three types of open ended learning emphasize creating a learning environment where the student must make decisions as to what information is needed to solve the problem and what is the best method to go about doing so.  While computers and technology can be a wonderful asset in creating open-ended learning environments, it is certainly not the only means to form this type of environment and vice versa.  When using computers as a tool in the classroom, an inquiry-based learning approach is certainly not the only method that can be used.  While an inquiry-based learning approach is effective and one that I used often, I believe it is important to switch up between learning methods to increase the likelihood of reaching all of the student’s learning styles.  Computers and technology may be used in problem-based learning, project based learning, and through the use of drill-and-practice software.  Drill-and practice software (computer-assisted instruction) has been around for over thirty years and is still used widely in classrooms today.  I believe there is much to gain from drill-and-practice software when it is used correctly and agree with Sonjia Jurich when she states that drill-and-practice software ''are not a panacea that will ensure successful learning for all students in all situations, but simply a tool that can be effectively employed to boost students’ academic achievement and interest.  As any tool, the final success of the project will depend on how well it is used.''

                I have found that the majority of my time in developing open-ended learning environments comes from the initial understanding of the concepts in place and how they are used within the desired material to facilitate the learning process of the information.  Once the lesson is developed for initial use, it takes no time at all to implement it continually over the years with only minor modifications depending on the material and concepts involved in the instruction. 

                Certainly not every school is capable of providing a personal computer for every student right now but this does not mean that open-ended instructions cannot be employed.  Having students working in small groups to complete an open-ended assignment can add to the effectiveness of the instruction.  Some of the benefits include a better understanding of individual differences in thinking and diverse responses, the use and improvement of social skills, a sense of pride in their contribution to the group, as well as instant personal feedback from group members.