Module 8: Activity 6: One-to-one learning

It is evident that technology is in-grained in the very fibre of today's native digital natives. Many individuals would agree that it would be ideal to have each student using his/her own technology tool.  There are many positives that can be obtained from the one-to-one teaching/learning approach. These include but not limited to:- 

• it allows the facilitator to use differential teaching/learning approaches so as to meet the needs of the students
• it enhances the teaching/learning process, encourages  collaboration, creativity and fosters critical thinking.

With the correct use of the tools like the iPad, iPod, cell phones or any other technology tools, facilitators can make a difference in the lives of their students, which in turn would make them marketable for the work world. That is to say, make them 21st Century ready.

Module 8: Activity 5: Interactive White Boards

The Interactive White Board has been a welcome commodity for some facilitators and students. It has been shown to improve students' participation in classrooms and to enhance teaching experience. Notwithstanding the aforementioned, this large technological tool has its pros and has been a debated topic for some time now. 

The use of this technological tool can be bring about positive results if the activities are well-planned, organized and executed.

Module 8: Activity 4: One-computer classroom

A one-computer classroom can be effective and produce positive results if facilitators use their creativity to enhance the teaching/learning experience. They need be mindful of the boredom that could occur if activities are not well-planned. Remember that its connection to a large display screen can be beneficial in lessons. Some examples for its use are:- 

• as a teaching tool
• as a presentation tool for both stakeholders
• for group work

Module 8: Activity 3: Learrning Labs

Time to practice and a safe place devoted to learning through action are two elements of a learning lab as posited by MHA Institute. It is claimed that individuals get a chance to face real-life issues and they find solutions to them. 

These labs can be successful if rules are established for its use. It has been mentioned numerous times though that these are becoming obsolete since personal devices like ipods, smart phones and laptops to name a few are dominating the seen.

Module 8: Learning in ICT-enabled Classroom

The positives of learning in ICT-enabled classrooms can out weigh the negatives if certain practices and structures are put into place. Some of these are:-

1. age appropriate devices and software
2. ICT- competent facilitators
3. finance for purchasing and maintaining equipment
4. well planned activities for in and out of class sessions that allow for collaboration, engagement and enjoyment 
5. opportunities for feedback
6. opportunities that cater for diversity
7. student-centered learning

I must say that Antigua and Barbuda has shown its belief in having the above mentioned classrooms because it has first given every facilitator a laptop, provide the opportunity for every fourth or fifth formers to be armed with tablet. This is a step in the technological dirrection.

Module 8 - Activity 1: Principles of Classroom Management

Without proper classroom management, learning will not take place. This is not saying that facilitators/educators should stand over the learners' head with the rod of correction. It simply takes proper planning and adequate delivery of activities to achieve the required behaviour.

It is of great importance for facilitators to model the expected behaviours, be firm and fair when dealing with issues, allow opportunities for learners to be involved in the concepts to be learnt, demand respect and show it too and develop a good relationship with learners and those with whom they live if they intend on having excellent classroom management.

Module 9: Activity 11: Final Reflections

How has the journey so far been, smooth or hard going? The lessons that I have learnt so far?

The journey so far had its ups and downs especially when I had to push my tired body and mind to function at peak level. That however, did not deter me because I turned the challenges into stepping stones. With continued effort and determination, the end result was exemplary. It was a pleasure working with most members of the team. Their words of encouragement and clarification when needed will not go unnoticed. Collaboration, teamwork and positive criticism has made a great impact on my completion of this module. Thanks to all those who played a part in ensuring that I kept on going.

Some lessons that are etched in my mind are:-
•A leader cannot lead without a vision.
•Never micro-manage, form a management team to critically analyze programmes or future plans.
•Build trust- it paves the way for people to follow you.
•Empower all stakeholders.
•Build a good relationship with the community.
•Let change be gradual.
•Have a flexible plan for change so that other alternatives can be used as you progress.
•Allow time for staff professional development.
•As a leader, get first-hand experiences of the day-to-day running of your institution so that you can speak convincingly on issues that may arise.

How my aspirations for my school have changed now that I have completed this module? How I feel about the school's vision and whether it is on track?

Having completed this module, I can see my school being the lead school in Antigua and Barbuda with respect to ICT integration. This view can be realized with the installation of ICT infrastructure, the training of educators and the support of all the stakeholders. The school’s vision will keep on track with flexibility if obstacles are met. There is also evidence that the educators are willing and ready to move forward for success.

The key areas that will be focus points for my continued learning about ICTs, their uses and ways to plan for them at my school. How I am going to support my own continued learning?

Key areas that I will be focus points are:

-implementing the school’s shared vision

-ongoing training sessions

-have a support system for educators

I am going to continue my own learning by:

-completing the other two module on COL

-enroll in any other ICT course for as refreshers’ course

-utilize the information gleaned from this course

-continue to use of the different ICT tools etc that are available