for Robin's Zire 71
link to website
another book to buy
by Howard Rheingold
Smart mobs emerge when communication and computing technologies amplify human talents for cooperation.
Workplace Learning: A Critical Introduction
by John Bratton
Yes, I know the site's in German, but there's a book review in English.
report by BECTA
"This report examines the evidence of where Managed Learning Environments and Virtual Learning Environments (and their constituent tools) are being used, and the potential benefits which are being claimed.
It looks across all sectors, and takes an international as well as a UK perspective. It also considers the potential implications for the UK schools sector - what can be learnt that is transferable to practice in schools?"
Clive Shepherd argues in this (short) article for short, easily accessible nuggets of information being available from workplace intranets. In his conclusion he writes: "Short tutorials suit everybody. They suit trainers because they are really quick to produce and don't need gimmicks to keep the learner's attention. What they do need are simple explanations of key principles, plenty of relevant examples, appropriate illustrations and regular, meaningful opportunities for interaction. They should not attempt to teach detail, because that can be accommodated by linking to in-depth documents for those who need them. They can be distributed for next to nothing, because they are unlikely to require much in the way of human support. They also suit learners because they can be delivered at the desktop, alongside all the interruptions, and don't require a trip to the learning centre. They are also much more likely to be digestible and easily applicable to real work situations.
Most trainers are capable of producing usable fifteen-minute tutorials. Some may need help with the writing, with developing interactions or with graphics, but that help is likely to be available somewhere in the training department. These skills can also be learned - perhaps even with fifteen-minute tutorials, you never know."
I really do like the look of this site.
Great example of how the template stuff could work.
Editor: Keegan, D., 2002, ZIFF Papiere 119, FernUniversitat – Hagen. November 2002. 172 pages, ISSN: 1435-9340
Reviewed by: Murugan Krishnapillai, PhD, The University of the West Indies, Barbados - link to review
from review:
"This e-book is a report of a study, which is supported by the European Union Leonardo da Vinci programme, about the potential of wireless technologies for teaching/learning at a distance."
from review contd...
"This 172-page report defines distance learning (“d-learning”) as essentially learning through print, e-learning as electronic learning in wired environments, and m-learning as wireless e-learning. "
Extensive list of journals relevant to the field
link to website
Robin Mason
The Open University, UK
Frank Rennie
University of the Highlands and Islands Millennium Institute, Lews Castle College, UK
The study focuses on the potential adoption of wireless broadband in the Western Isles of Scotland, and provides a community perspective with local facilitation and training.
International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning
(April - 2004)
ISSN: 1492-3831
Broadband: A Solution for Rural e-Learning?
Abstract
Rural and remote learners are disadvantaged even with online provision due to poor connections. Broadband offers a potential solution. This paper looks at the initial results of a project to install broadband services in the Western Isles of Scotland. It focuses on the educational potential of broadband and the design implications for online courses. It also considers more informal kinds of learning that broadband facilitates in rural areas.
link to the first page of a resource I developed for other Flexible Learning Leaders about blogging.
The session will be facilitated via a chat session, and afterwards I am planning to zip up the materials and offer to others to use. Need to look at Creative Commons licensing etc.
George Siemens of elearnspace provides a succinct intro to blogging in the context of information flow, including rss. Html based presentation so no plug ins etc required. I like the diagrams especially in terms of potential for dialogue and sourcing information.
George writes:
"Some Trends with Content and Information:
- Two-way flow - creator and consumer of content can interact
- Questioning bias
- Increased dialogue/discussion
- Voices given to individuals
- Decentralized - power pushed to the edges
- Increased equality among nodes
- Modularization
- Pliable connections (or connected specialization)
- History given to knowledge/learning that used to vaporize"
link to pdf (1Mb)
Generic Skills in Vocational Education and Training: Research Readings
Edited by Jennifer Gibb
This volume of readings summarises some of the research undertaken into generic skills in 2001–02 as it relates to vocational education and training (VET).
Overview: Jennifer Gibb and Penelope Curtin
International perspectives on generic skills:
David D Curtis
Employability skills for the future: Penelope Curtin
VET teacher and student attitudes about generic skills: Victor Callan
Developing generic skills in training packages: Susan Dawe
Employability skills: Balancing the equation: Tess Julian
The development of employability skills in novice
workers through employment: Erica Smith and Paul Comyn
Making experience work: Displaced workers provide new insights into generic skills: Crina Virgona and Peter Waterhouse
‘Generic skills’ in a changing work environment: Geoff Hawke
The assessment of generic skills: David D Curtis
Assessing and certifying generic skills: Berwyn Clayton, Kaaren Blom, Dave Meyers and Andrea Bateman
Assessment of key competencies: The Torrens Valley TAFE approach: Rob Denton
Exploring assessment in flexible delivery of vocational education and training programs
Report by Patricia Hyde, Berwyn Clayton and Robin Booth which concludes that there are
"four critical issues for assessment in flexible
delivery:
- Learners need to be ready to undertake more individualised flexible learning arrangements.
- Well-designed, developed and resourced support strategies for learners before, during and
after assessment are absolutely necessary.
- Systematic formative assessment and feedback processes that add value to the learning
experience need to be in place.
- The learner's context is an important consideration in the assessment design process for flexible delivery." (p96)
and from page 9:
"There are particular challenges for assessment in flexible delivery modes. Many of these challenges relate to the implementation of effective support arrangements for assessment (for example, timely and appropriate feedback, well-designed feedback systems when computer-assisted assessment is being used, and regular contact). Other challenges relate specifically to the administrative and management issues that emerge when organisations offer a range of learning and assessment options (for example, tracking learner progress and ensuring integrity of evidence). Other challenges relate more to pedagogical considerations. The use of information communication technologies for flexible learning and assessment arrangements has sharpened the interest in instructional design, learning theory and the role of assessment in learning."
By Richard E. Ferdig, Ph.D., and Kaye D. Trammell, University of Florida
Multiple page article
"In this article, we will describe the pedagogy behind blogs. We will address the reasons why blogs should be used as one of many teaching and learning tools, as well as describe the potential benefits of blogs for educators. Drawing on our own research and teaching, we will conclude with specific strategies for using blogs in the classroom."
Short Presentation on Blogging - need to use the arrow buttons to progress through the presentation otherwise the slide transitions are buggy.
Like the personal voice that comes through in this presentation.
home // articles // Mobility
*need to follow links to 'training' and then prices are in the booking form $440 for this one day course
This program looks at the practical application of Mind Mapping, and participants will:
- learn the nature of radiant thinking and how mind mapping taps into the way the brain works
- develop Mind Maps® that capture complete concepts and develop new ideas
- learn to capture and comprehend information more easily and with greater
completeness and clarity
- use mind mapping to plan activities of all types
- learn to create Mind Maps® individually and in teams
list of books etc to buy ...
Benefits:
When properly applied, and used to its full extent, Mind Mapping allows people to:
- plan major projects and other activities in a fraction of the time normally needed
- capture and comprehend vast amounts of information relevant to their focus
- work creatively either individually or in a team
- generate innovative new ideas related to the task being worked on
- communicate ideas and concepts easily and quickly
Books:
07. How To Mind Map(R)
by Tony Buzan
Mind Maps are the ultimate thinking tool for maximising your brainpower and radically improving your performance. In this quick and easy to read book you will see why Mind Mapping is a revolutionary system of planning and note taking that has changed the lives of millions of people all over the world.
23. The Power of Creative Intelligence
Ten Ways To Tap Into Your Creative Genius
By Tony Buzan
Did you know the number of ideas it is possible for your brain to create is greater than the number of atoms in the known universe? Creativity is not just painting a picture or playing an instrument - it can be part of every decision you take! This book is full of fun games and tools to help you make the most of your own creativity. When you are creative, you are full of energy, enthusiasm and ideas!
$19.00 Inc GST
31. The Mind Map Book (Fully Illustrated Colour Version)
By Tony and Barry Buzan
This full-colour illustrated 2003 edition has just been updated and introduces you to the fundamental operational principles of your brain, showing you how to understand, develop and use them to your enormous advantage.
New 2003 Edition Available!
$39.00 Inc GST
For Zac:
28. Brain Power for Kids
by Lana Israel with Tony Buzan
How to become an instant genius.
This great little book was written by a 13 year old to help others discover their genius.
''School, studying, learning, notes, homework, exams all occupying our lives... Therefore, wouldn't it be great to find a way to make studying easier, your grades better and spend less time at it?''
$18.00 Inc GST
Content
Creative thinking and logic defined
Brain function – why we think the way we do and what we can do to train our brain
Determining personal strengths and weaknesses
The innovation systematic process – focus, design, do, evaluate and implement
Creativity – tools and techniques
Logical and analytical tools and techniques
Identifying and resolving problems
Fostering the creative environment
Implementation and review strategies
Learning Outcomes
At the completion of this course, participants should be able to:
Identify opportunities for innovation and creative problem-solving
Describe and use several logic-creative thinking techniques
Use the innovation process to develop, utilise and review systematic innovations and problem-solving strategies
Plan implementation of ideas and systems
From the Netwroking 2000 website
"Ros Brennan works in VET at Charles Sturt University and researches in the area of Online delivery of VET. In particular, she is interested in the issues of effectiveness of Online delivery and the development of sound teaching and learning practices in this new environment.
Description
The teaching and learning issues associated with Online delivery of education and training include the emergence of a WEB pedagogy, student learning styles and levels of user skills. These issues contibute to any judgement about the effectiveness of Online delivery of education and training."
range of resources and links, mainly targetted at Higher Ed sector.
"The purpose of this site is to provide teachers with background information on flexible delivery. In particular it points to reports about recent initiatives which have encouraged the move in higher education to more flexible modes of delivery, it identifies research concerned with the implementation and suggests resources which are available to support such initiatives."
Welcome to the nosleep software open source project. This project consists of a suite of innovative and useful PalmOS applications that are all freely available. All of our software is completely free because we believe that some high-fidelity software should be available to anyone.
Due Yesterday
Due Yesterday is an easy to use and highly customizable student organizer.
Description & Download
FileZ
FileZ is a full featured file manager and system utility.
Description & Download
QuizWiz
An easy to use quizzing program that lets you tutor yourself on any topic using flashcards, multiple choice, or true/false questions.
Description & Download
Quiz Library
Idea Pad
Idea Pad lets you easily draw a diagram - mind map, concept map, or flow chart - and convert it to a textual outline, and vice versa.
link to website
Cinthia was a FLL in 2003 looking at m-learning
Summary of Action Plan
As new technologies are introduced into our lives and our education and training systems, educators at all levels are questioning ‘how do people learn and how can electronic tools assist in the learning process?’
My study of Mobile Learning as the focus for my Flexible Learning Leaders project began with the view of exploring the tools which would assist in the learning task for workers who are mobile for most of their working day.
The Transport and Distribution workforce of today is required to learn skills that empower them to be able to identify problems, locate relevant information, analyse the information, synthesise the information and communicate with others. They are also required to carry out these functions in ways that are relevant to their industry context and in locations many kilometres from their central depot or station.
Therefore, the electronic tools that can assist them to develop these skills and carry out the above tasks must be portable and mobile like the workforce. Mobile Learning, through the use of PDA’s, Pocket PC’s and mobile phones gives the workers/learners as much control as possible over what, when, where and how they learn. The context for the learning is provided by the nature of their occupation and mobile learning has the capacity to support o
Kinshuk is Associate Professor of Information
Systems at Massey University in New Zealand where he directs the Advanced Learning Technology Research Centre.
"The exponential growth of mobile technology in recent years, increasing availability of high-bandwidth network infrastructures, advances in wireless technologies and popularity of handheld devices, have opened up new accessibility opportunities for education. The true potential of e-learning as 'anytime, anywhere' has finally
started to be realised with the advent of mobile learning (m-learning)."
link to website
From Sue Franklin The University of Sydney and Roderick Sims Deakin University
"Interestingly, the articulated 'unique features' of m-learning (see details in box below) were reminiscent of the promises of computer-assisted learning promoted in the early 1980s and as such it is critical to ensure technology does not become the determinant of our future, but rather our servant. Similarly the 'limitations', 'potential uses' and 'applications' are nothing new - just different, and perhaps a more convenient means, by which information can be accessed."
Can Toolboxes help you?
Are there any gaps in your training resources?
Are you introducing a new course?
Are you interested in widening your scope?
Do your students need IT skills?
Are you an enterprise needing materials to support an in-house training program?
Do you want to upgrade the quality of current training resources?
What training delivery scenarios can Toolboxes support?
Effective Teaching with Technology in Higher Education: Foundations for Success
A. W. Bates, Gary Poole
ISBN: 0-7879-6034-9
Hardcover
336 pages
July 2003, Jossey-Bass
US $36.00 Add to Cart
Description
Table of Contents
Author Information
Reviews
"Effective Teaching with Technology in Higher Education draws on current research and best practice to show how to integrate technology into teaching in higher education. This book provides a comprehensive theoretical and pedagogical foundation for helping instructors make critical decisions about the use of technology within the college curriculum. This practical and much needed resource discusses the relationship between knowledge, learning, teaching, and the nature of media, and shows how this information should inform the use of technology in a teaching environment. The authors introduce a decision model that is based on key criteria for selecting appropriate technologies for teaching in higher education. They also provide guidance for developing and delivering a course using electronic technology and discuss the organizational and technical support structures that are needed to back up instructors using technology. "
link to website
By Dave Pollard
PART ONE
"Four years ago I wrote a well-received paper entitled A Prescription for Business Innovation: Creating Technologies that Solve Basic Human Needs. I've updated it, broken it into three manageable pieces, and present the first part below. The remaining parts will follow on successive Tuesdays.
Introduction: Why I'm Here
My modest objective in this presentation is first, to tell you some new, interesting and useful things about innovation, and, second, to persuade you that innovation is the most important determinant of every business' success, and perhaps even the quality of our lives. I want to convince you that in your business, whether it employs one person or one million, innovation is probably the solution to whatever is currently keeping you awake at night -- whether that be sales growth, cost control, customer satisfaction, employee retention, or maximizing shareholder value."
link to website
interview with Katy Campbell by the Idea Group
Excerpt:
"IG: What is the importance of learning objects and repositories?
KC: A new model of courseware development provides a solution to the problem of expensive and time-consuming original resource development.
The emerging field of knowledge management, and eLearning standards and specifications includes the learning objects economy model.
IG: What is the importance of critical approach to design (address the problems of designing from the dominant culture)?
KC: As effective eWriters, we need to be aware that we are not designing culturally neutral eTexts. We write from the culture we belong to. The content and the way that the content is experienced reflect the values and the practices of a particular cultural group, and the group currently dominating the Web reflects Western ideas and values.
IG: Why is active learning critical?
KC: Environments designed for active learning involve several factors, including authentic situations, opportunities to solve problems and reflect, collaborative activities, and cognitive challenges. "
"Background
RELOAD is a project funded under the JISC Exchange for Learning Programme (X4L). The project focuses on the development of tools that are based on emerging learning technology interoperability specifications. It is being managed by Bolton Institute with staff located at Bolton Institute and the University of Strathclyde.
The primary aims of this project are to:
facilitate the creation, sharing and reuse of learning objects and services
enhance the range of pedagogical approaches realisable through the use of lesson plans
These aims will be achieved through the production of a suite of software tools for authoring and delivery of standard-compliant learning objects incorporating comprehensive user guides and exemplar resources. The tools will be of significant value to the JISC and wider community, since they provide the crucial "missing link" which allows users to author and transfer learning objects, in specification compliant format, between authoring and design tools, local and distributed digital repositories, and VLEs."
Workshop held on June 20th and 21st, 2002
University of Birmingham, UK
PresentersDr John Henry, Deakin University Other presenters to be confirmed - stay tuned.
Description'PD' used to be something you went to. Now it's something you do most of the time -including when you log on.
John Henry's recent research on for the Australian Flexible Learning Framework, Professional Development models for the Future has identified some key 'enablers' that organisations need to support today's 'knowledge workers' in VET - which is just about all of us.
This workshop will present John's findings, explore emerging models of staff training and development in industry and overseas, and look at the role of web services and Learning Management Systems in professional development. It is a must for anyone involved in supporting key changes for flexible learning in VET - IT web services, strategic human resource development, staff training, and performance improvement.
The Victorian Association of TAFE Libraries (VATL) is a network of TAFE Institute Libraries, providing expert advice, products and services to its members and clients.
VATL is organising and hosting a library conference at William Angliss Institute of TAFE
July 1st - 2nd 2004.
Conference themes will include:
Collaboration and partnerships, including internally with teaching staff and externally with other libraries and industry partners.
Management issues
Library design and refurbishment
Guide to Copenhagen V Hotels, capital city of Denmark, COPENHAGEN offers a dynamic international experience through great shopping, a large number of hotels, restaurants, theatres, museums, art galleries, musical entertainment and a lot more. COPENHAGEN also offers a pulsating nightlife, with many places that don't seem to peak until midnight, and don't seem to simmer down until dawn. Whether you like live music, trendy nightclubs, or genuine pubs, Copenhagen's nightlife has something for you. Whether you’re traveling alone on business or with the entire family on vacation, we’ve got DISCOUNTS on copenhagen v hotel ROOMS to accommodate any occasion.
NET*Working 2004 will be an online conference featuring locally based events in all states and territories. The conference will have a continued focus on professional development, with individual and state and territory—based learning opportunities. Still in the planning phase, NET*Working 2004 will incorporate the themes of inclusion and participation across the country, and highlight technological innovation in the vocational education and training sector. The conference will also celebrate the achievements of the Framework and communicate the ongoing direction of flexible training delivery in Australia.
The dates for NET*Working 2004 are November 8 to 19. The themes are: Inclusion and Inspiration.
Annual Women, Management & Employment Relations Conference
Thursday 22 & Friday 23 July, 2004.
Outline
This annual conference on Women, Management and Employment Relations began in 1989. The aim of the conference is to provide an audit of the major developments and issues facing women in management and in the workforce. Leaders from government, business, unions and academia are invited to present their views and engage in discussion with the participants. The Director of the Affirmative Action Agency and the Sex Discrimination Commissioner have been regular participants.
The goals of the Conference include deepening understanding of the significance of equal employment opportunity at work and its relevance to broad human resource management, and exploring experiences in a range of organisations to develop a greater appreciation of strategic options.
Pre Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning
2004 virtual conferences
A series of four e-mail-based virtual conferences will be held in May and June 2004 as a lead-up to the Third Pan-Commonwealth Forum on Open Learning. The discussions are open to all and there is no cost to participate.
TOPIC 1: LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
Dates: Tuesday, 4 May – Friday, 14 May 2004
Moderated by Dr. Rory McGreal
SUBSCRIBE CODE: pcf3latest
TOPIC 2: RESEARCH AND EVALUATION
Dates: Tuesday, 18 May – Friday, 28 May 2004
Moderated by Professor Bernadette Robinson and Dr. Charlotte Creed
SUBSCRIBE CODE: pcf3research
TOPIC 3: BEST PRACTICE
Dates: Tuesday, 1 June – Friday, 11 June 2004
Moderated by Mr. Mark Nichols
SUBSCRIBE CODE: pcf3best
TOPIC 4: EMERGING ISSUES
Dates: Tuesday, 15 June – Friday, 25 June 2004
Moderated by Dr. Andrew Higgins
The paper was commissioned to assist the Professional Development Program of the Framework to develop new PD strategies in support of the Framework’s goals. The research was undertaken by Jack Gilding and Lin Thompson from Backroad Connections and was part of the Policy and Research Program’s Sharing Knowledge 2003 project.
Start of Executive Summary
"This report summarises a review of key trends in professional development (PD) within industry, community and the education sector, in particular, but not limited to, those incorporating online learning or flexible delivery strategies.
Key findings are that PD initiatives are of concern to many, not just employers and employees; there are many approaches and strategies employed, though the number that could be deemed really innovative are few. Gradual and incremental change is the norm. The literature reporting PD experiences and approaches mostly emanate from the education sector. Industry and the corporate sector do not have the same
incentives – and some positive disincentives – to write about their experiences.
Industries talk about strategies and methods rather than professional development
‘models’.
Analysis of literature, case studies, and interviews conducted suggest there are many
different approaches to staff training and professional development and a variety of
strategies employed. Most PD programs still use traditional methods, such as workshops, stand-along training modules, and mentoring strategies. There is an increasing but still a low number of companies adopting a fully online approach. Those incorporating online within their total PD plan are blending strategies with a mix of traditional methods. Innovative online teaching approaches and systems occur mostly in the larger industries."
This guidelines provides a quick overview of the things you should consider if choose to develop a web site during your Flexible Learning Leader year.
link to website
By Jeremy - Kingdom of Squirrels
A PHOTOLOG IN FIVE EASY STEPS
(or at least, [his] version of it)
"This little photo-weblog ("photolog") tutorial is the result of a request (gentle prod?) from another Minnesota weblogger who was curious how I did my implementation. I am sure there are many ways to do a photolog, this is merely one of them and it came about after much searching of other weblogs and hanging out in the MovableType Support Forums. Thanks to all who came before me!"
"This year the Australian learning community will be moving Beyond the Break to imagine the possibilities for innovative teaching, learning and assessment.
The three-day national conference will inform and inspire practitioners within the Vocational Education and Training (VET) environment to embrace innovative learning practices, showcase their achievements, network with others, and discover new and learning techniques and technologies.
Building upon Shooting the Tubes, the TAFE Queensland Centre for Innovation and Development presents Beyond the Break: Imagine the Possibilities for Teaching & Learning.
The conference will be held at the Nathan Campus of Griffith University at Mt.Gravatt in Brisbane between the 28th – 30th June.
The key themes are:
• teaching, learning and assessment
• instructional design
• knowledge and content management
• educational technologies
• leadership for innovative practice"
link to website
"Places on a new work-based scheme are in demand
A scheme aimed at giving pupils in England more work-based learning is helping to get disaffected teenagers back into education, inspectors say.
There was early evidence of better attitudes, behaviour and attendance in lessons, Ofsted said. "Pupils spoke positively of their experiences and valued their increased confidence, self-esteem and the vocational orientation of the courses," Ofsted said. In many programmes demand for places exceeded capacity - "leading to selection by aptitude, career ambition, behaviour, punctuality and attendance".
link to website
list of interesting looking books
"ONLINE EDUCA BERLIN is the largest gathering of e-learning and distance education professionals in Europe, enabling participants to develop multinational and cross-industry contacts & partnerships, as well as to enhance their knowledge, expertise, and abilities. "
