Provide alternatives to current printed learning materials.
For centuries, printed materials have served us well. They have been a great way to get information out to everyone. By now, the content development cycles have almost been perfected. However we’re still unable to adapt the content to the requirements of different learners. There are some who require a faster or a slower pace.
One possibility is to focus on work books, which enabled Finland’s success in Pisa rankings. These books encouraged the students to learn more by engaging them and providing their teachers with an efficient way of assessing their skills. The same general idea can be applied to digital learning as well. Though short, fun videos are useful, there need to be alternatives.
Recognize the role of teachers in the digital world
Though machines are great at providing real time feedback to users as well as showing them possible learning paths, teachers are still necessary. They should support learners, giving them personal advice to motivate them in their learning journey.
Retrain teachers
Teachers need to be shown new ways of using digital content and data to make their classes more effective. Yet we shouldn’t get carried away by new trends. Technology should support teachers, not replace them.
Become relevant again
Publishers need to be in the middle of the learning process. They should make content as easily accessible as possible instead of hiding it away behind clunky online interfaces. That requires rethinking the field.
Source: “Learning: We will do better”, Teuvo Sankila, London Show Daily, P.16
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