what can we learn from a wolf? mobile learning lessons from a he in fe project by dr samuel nikoi...
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What can we learn from a WoLF? Mobile learning lessons from a HE in FE
project
By
Dr Samuel Nikoi & Dr Palitha Edirisingha(Beyond Distance Research Alliance – University of
Leicester)
http://moodle.lec.ac.uk/wolf/
WoLF Background
JISC funded collaborative research project between Leicester College & University of Leicester. Role of Leicester College
Recruit Teaching Assistants Learning Technologist & Tutor
Role of University of Leicester Research
From March 2007 - December 2008.
Project Objectives
To investigate how Pocket PCs can support portfolio development by Teaching Assistants on foundation degree programme in education at the University of Leicester.
To develop: A pedagogical model and proof of concept Resources for practitioners for designing reflective learning Exemplar and user cases highlighting student experiences Guidelines for integrating pocket PCs institutional VLEs
PDA and KeyboardThe PDA
Induction Session Induction Session
PDA &
INDUCTION SESSION
Induction Process
Research Design
Research Approach Ethnographic action research
Data Gathering 20 TAs in first, second and third year study groups. One-to-one Interviews Classroom Observation Focus Group Discussion Activities on project moodle
Data Analysis Qualitative data analysis using cognitive mapping
Benefits – Learning Activities
Personalisation
Evidence for assignments
Reflection
Memory aid
Output from a science lesson
Individual reflective journal on Moodle
“For the science assignment I used the PDA for voice recording and for videoing…I used the PDA for literacy assignment as well” (1st Year TA).
Benefits – Knowledge Management Gathering & Sharing
Resources: Text/Audio visuals
Socialisation
Communities of Practice
Synchronous E-Tutorial with Tutor
Output from a Science lesson on magnets
“on the moodle site it is there for everyone to see, its there to share with everyone. If colleagues are having the same problems learning technologist will not have to answer the same questions”. 1st yr TA.
Issues: Technical & Quality
Synchronizing PDAs with home computers
Uploading evidence unto VLE
Wireless connectivity
Poor quality images / recordings
“PDA will be great as a learning device especially if you had access to wireless internet in the school”. 3rd yr TA.
“the recording… Its difficult to listen. Its quite hard in my experience. It actually makes it more of tasks”.1st yr TA.
Issues – Learning conditions Space ownership & management
Ethical considerations
Access to specialist equipment
Insurance cost
“I am not allowed to take pictures of any of my children because of the nature of my work.” (2 year TA).
“We’ve already got facilities in our schools” (1st year TA).
Issue - Learner support Induction: one off vrs progressive
Type of Support: Reactive, Proactive, Interactive
Sources of Support: Formal – Teacher, Learning technologist, IT officers.
Informal – Peers, Close friends, family members.
When doing my portfolio always make sure that I have the piece of feedback I front of me” “My children are my teacher” (2 year TA).
Lessons Learnt
Framing of context
Structuring learning activities
Ownership of equipment
Space management
Learning support
Integration
Standards
Project Partners
Beyond Distance Research Alliance University of Leicester
Prof. Gilly Salmon Dr Palitha Edirisingha Dr Samuel Nikoi
Leicester College Paul Chapman Lucy Stone Kirsty Lewis Chris Battisson
JISC FE in HE Programme Lisa Gray
http://moodle.lec.ac.uk/wolf/