As we move into the 3rd week of EDU369 I never thought this course would affect me as it has! Looking at the future trends in education has made me reminisce about my past and how with the assistance of technology the educational system is transforming from read the chapter and take the test to hands on approach that includes various technological aspects. By utilizing blended learning models such as the Rotation Model, Flex Model, A La Cart Model or Virtual Model teachers are able to not only improve the learning process within their classroom, but within the entire school with the goal of blended learning throughout the district and even state-wide. These 4 models put learning into the students’ hands with the teacher there as a guide, that encourages them to explore and continues forward challenging each student independently and appropriately. Students are able to utilize technological programs that instantly show their understanding of the material and offers greater assistance on areas of weakness. Then the teacher is able to review their progress, and implement specific one on one or small group lessons to enhance the learning process ensuring each student comprehends the new knowledge and can relate it to other learning and/or life aspects. If when I was in high school the A La Cart model https://youtu.be/RuXdOLODZc8 had been available I know at least 1/3 of my class if not more would have utilized this model, especially if it had a dual credit option. To have been able to take a course that we could do independently and that challenged us to a higher level would have been amazing. It all sounds quite beneficial for the class environment doesn’t it, so why aren’t all teachers utilizing one of these models in their class?
Learning about these various models make me look at my field of Early Childhood Education (ECE) more. Seeing how much the education system has changed but the strategies many instructors utilize in the ECE field has not. I believe if they viewed ‘6 Reasons We Love Blended Learning’ https://youtu.be/hRcdlYRJeuMit would peek their curiosity allowing them to see how much blended learning adds to the environment not takes away, it puts the ‘fun’ into learning and ECE instructors are all about the kids playing and having fun. Then by viewing webinars such as ‘From Zero to Blended Jumping into Blended Learning at the Elementary Level’,https://youtu.be/O2jEr38zzOM instructors would obtain greater details related to blended learning to assist with incorporating more training for their students. This in turn would not only educate the ECE students about the 4 models but also how to incorporate the models to benefit all students in their classrooms. Then school districts wouldn’t need to spend as much money on teacher training and could utilize professional development funds on advancing blended learning within the school/district. The district would be able to put into place a few mandatory trainings like EdUHK has done to ensure all teaching staff has obtained the same basic knowledge and create stronger follow-up training for all. I know it all sounds simple doesn’t it? Through this course I’m realizing that the reality is some in the education field are not ready to evolve, they feel their way is best way for students and in turn the students are losing out on a world of possibilities that technology has to offer! Changes are being made however some are quite slower than others. We need to figure out how to remove this ‘fear’ they have of incorporating blended learning and increase their confidence on creating and utilizing this style of teaching in their classroom.
EDU369 By Penny 
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