The Song Remains the Same

We all know the song, it's been around for years. It's all about learning and improving learning outcomes for our kids. Always at the very core of what we are on about as teachers.

But hang on a minute...digital media technologies have made kids different. These technologies have fundamentally changed the nature of thinking, communication and expression for today’s learners.

Because digital media proficiency is now so critical for successful participation and contribution in today's society, teachers are madly scrambling for solutions and ideas by turning to everything form blogs to interactive whiteboards, to digital video, powerpoints and clay animations as the saviour.

So, if we‘re really serious about digital media integration and ICT enabled student learning, does the song change? No! But, the song could start to become a little scary and confronting for most of us if we decide to ask, and seek answers to some big questions.

Does the use of digital media technology lead to deeper understanding, better questioning, better problem solving, better critical and higher order thinking and better communication?

Are we setting up the best possible learning environments to provide more compelling learning experiences for our kids?

Are we being more reflective about why are we using digital media (ICT)?

So yes, the song does remain the same because it is still all about improving learning, but how do you know, and how do you measure that the use of digital media technologies is making learning better?

Maybe the song needs an added verse, perhaps a remix.



About the Presenter
Kym has worked for The Department of Education in South Australia for the past 10 years as an educator and Learning Technology Consultant. He is currently responsible for state-wide learning technology professional learning activities for teachers and leaders. He also brokers, organizes and implements targeted student ICT programs and projects. Kym has a comprehensive media background and works extensively in film making and digital storytelling projects with teachers and students. His expertise lies in digital proficiency and digital media curriculum integration strategies.

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Comment by Helen Otway on September 20, 2008 at 1:27pm

Hi Kym,
Really looking forward to your session and being your moderator. I'm sure your talk will generate lots of discussion.
Helen