WIntec+Course+Group

** **What is this course about?** This course is designed to give teachers an understanding of learning theory behind the effective use of ICT in the classroom. We will briefly look at the history of computers in the classroom and reflect on the rationales for using ICT technologies. The role of the teacher will be examined and reflected upon. The digital divide and strategies for selecting educational software will be discussed. We will also examine the latest technology developments in their possible impact on education. Overall it is hoped that this course will make you reflect on your current teaching practice/pedagogy and make any necessary adjustments to improve the integration of ICT into your classroom programme. The majority of the course will be delivered online however three face to face sessions will be held. 1. A one hour introduction to the course to introduce the online environment (Moodle) and a brief introduction to learning theory. 2. An optional face to face session mid-course (2 hours: 4pm-6pm) to review concepts learnt and to introduce teachers to second half concepts. This will also be a time to answer any questions face to face. 3. Exemplar seminars: 2 June: 1pm – 5pm. At this time each teacher will give a short 20 min seminar outlining an ICT related lesson they have taken with their class. The teachers will make links to learning theory and effective use and reflect on the positives, negatives and interesting aspects on their lesson/activity. The first week in March: Face to face meeting time and location to be advised. If you wish to credited 15 credits towards completing the Graduate Diploma of Information Technology in Education then you need to complete the four assessment tasks. The assessment is competency based, there are no tests or A – E grades. The pass is either Merit Pass or Pass or resubmit. For the Cobham Connections cluster it is optional whether you elect to complete the assignments however the seminars at the conclusion of the course on 2 June is compulsory. The assessment task for those who wish to do them are spread evenly throughout the duration of the course and each task is to be submitted electronically through the Learning Management System. · Reading Mastery Tasks: o Three articles will be chosen which have particular interest to teacher. The relevance and significance for the teachers practice will be discussed. (500 words each) · Essay: o With reference to relevant literature the main learning theories that inform teaching and learning in the ICT environment will be discussed. (2000 words) · Seminar: o Teachers will present a short seminar (20 min) that outlines the effective use of ICT in their classroom. Links will be made to effective use of learning theory. · Current Issue Report o Select, indentify and research a contemporary issue in ICT and submit your report as an assignment. (1000 words) Email the tutor: Malcolm Roberts who will grant you an extension. (Normally two extra weeks) No. All readings are supplied in photocopied form and there are many readings/supplementary material available online. You are encouraged to search for extra reading material online. As part of your enrollment you are entitled and encouraged to make use of the Wintec library located in the Hub building in the city campus. To be an effective online learner you need to be disciplined and contribute to the weekly online forums/readings regularly. It would be expected that you would need to set aside 2-3 hours weekly to complete weekly tasks and assignments. Being an online course you can access the Learning management system from work or home at any time to fit with your busy schedule. Flexibility is the key. You would need an internet browser (normally Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox) and Microsoft Word and PowerPoint software. An internet connection is also required it is possible to complete the course using a dialup connection however broadband is advised.
 * Cobham Connections **
 * ICT Tools for Teachers
 * How will the course be delivered?**
 * When will the course start?**
 * What about assessment?**
 * What are the assessment tasks?**
 * What if I can’t complete an assessment by the due date?**
 * Do I need to buy text books?**
 * How many hours does the course take each week?**
 * What do I need on my computer to complete the course?**


 * What support is available?**The tutor is available via email or phone during the week. During school visits the tutor will be available to meet with teachers regarding any issues with the course.