Our 21st Century learning environment provides students with an infrastructure and pedagogy that places our Campus at the forefront of real world learning. Technology is fundamental to developing new approaches and new attitudes to student engagement. Real-time and virtual learning spaces can be empowered by students and teachers using and sharing resources that heighten the ability to communicate learning and ideas in an articulate, visual manner. Our BYOD Program supports the paradigm shift to learner-centered education, using multi-media for multi-intelligence. The Smart Classrooms’ strategy for eLearning is comprised of three interrelated and co-dependent components:
1. Digital Pedagogy
2. Digital Content (including eCurriculum)
3. eLearning Spaces
If one component is missing the approach is unbalanced and less effective (Education QLD, 2008, p 2).
An ICT Student Leader’s Perspective
Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology is a school with a diverse range of students, with a wide range of subjects, passions and learning styles. One thing that encourages this eclectic range at QASMT is the use of technology in aiding investigation and learning. These resources that we have access to as 21st century learners are integral in aiding us, as they provide access to a wide variety learning anytime, anywhere.
Not only can eLearning give us a multitude of enrichment opportunities, it is integral in developing IT and communication skills alike. With the addition of resources such as iConnect and the Learning Place, collaboration and communication between students and teachers have never been more open and interactive, enriching our understanding of content and opening new pathways for expressing this knowledge. `
One of the many facets of eLearning technology available to students and teachers is Blackboard, a website where resources such as practice questions, PowerPoints of class material and resources galore are stored, available for access whenever we may need them. Blackboard is also an excellent teaching tool as it is great for giving us progress feedback through the quizzes and assessments options. Emma Sudron, student.