In a recent blog post by Darren Draper, a Technology Curriculum Specialist for a school district in Utah, he reflects on predictions and comments made by teachers and ideas shared by David Wiley, a respected authority on Open Source Content, and Connectivism guru, George Siemens, on content delivery options.
“…the delivery of education via online courses will change the entire landscape of course development and control of the curriculum. Each academic field will supply its experts to help create the courses in that field. Once these courses are created, the notion that a teacher at a local school should be creating their own course no longer makes any sense whatever. (p. 19)”
Based on our discussions on computer based training (CBT) versus web-based training (WBT) we have narrowed the concepts to show the main differences being the manner in which information is delivered, processed, and produced. In CBT platforms students interact mainly with the computer as discover through learner controlled instruction and allows for the student to receive feedback that would normally be provided by a teacher. In a WBT platform the learning environment can provide an opportunity for myriad styles of learning and interactivity through simulations, web conferencing, video/audio tools, and online discussion groups.
The best case scenario using either option is designing a platform that is accessible to every student where they are and in the mode that best meets their needs. A curriculum that is well designed must be accessible not only in the classroom through direct teacher instruction but via computer or web-based for easy access for those who could benefit from its use.
References:
Alessi, S. & Trollip, S. (2001). Multimedia for learning: Methods and development. 3rd ed. MA: Allyn & Bacon
Drape’s Takes Bog post. (2008) Retrieved October 1, 2008 from http://drapestakes.blogspot.com/2008/10/hacking-curriculum.html
