WEEK 7: REFLECTION

Hello Everyone,

This week I learnt about learner autonomy, it is again a new concept in my context. I read two articles “What Is Learner Autonomy and How Can It Be Fostered” by Dimitrious Thanasoulas and EduTech Wiki. According to Henri Holec learner autonomy is “the ability to take charge of one’s learning”. It maximizes learner’s choices and they have self- responsibility towards their learning. What I realized is that the teachers are not the center of everything. Their roles get changed into a ‘helping hand” or a facilitator who has to monitor students’ learning. It really enhances “learning to learn” and explores learner’s capacities and the field of interest. It guarantees learner’s freedom of choice and fosters the self-esteem of learners. 

I’m using a technological tool i.e. class blog in order to solve an issue or problem “My students are not interested or motivated in doing their homework assignment.” Dear colleague Liat from Israel has invited me to be his partner but I’m confused as I haven’t used the technological tool that he is using to solve his issue. I hope, our teacher Donna will find the solution and we could help each other.

Another interesting thing that I learnt this week is Padlet.  It’s completely new for me but it is quite easy to handle. It’s a wall where students can display their creative works. Similarly, it can be used for posting homework assignment and to upload large content materials including videos. I posted “Helping Students Become Autonomous Learners: Can Technology Help? by Rubena St. Louis, Universidad Simon Bolivar, Caracas, Venezuela. I smiled at the wonderful wall of our teacher Donna. Thank you Donna for introducing this wonderful tool.

As for the implementation of technology tool, my students are enjoying doing their homework assignment in our class blog. This time they were asked to write a letter. They have done excellent job with the homework assignment. I have good news to share. After I started using technological tool in classroom teaching, my school Principal really appreciated and encouraged me to go on. My school is planning to manage internet access in the departments and school audio visual hall. Isn't it a good gesture? The credit must go to this course.

I look forward to learning more!

Kiran

Nepal