According to Siemen (2008), an educator has approached a passing along their journey that requires a pressing need of transformation. The industrialized convention the nation has become accustomed have transferred from the classroom and teacher to various electronic information sharing tools such as blogs, wikis, Google scholar, various open sources and social sites. Previously the need for an individual to access information began through physical interaction among peers. According to Egan (as cited in Siemen, 2008) the role and structure of instruction has continued to build a considerable amount of pressure for change on the educator over a century (p. 15). Dewey (1938/1997) expresses that the classroom educator has a precarious responsibility to develop experiences for the learner to become successful during later experiences of a deeper and more substantial level. Dewey continues to uphold the student is expected to incorporate knowledge in prescribed doses from without. If the student did not utilize the offered knowledge, he or she was to be held at fault as to be occupied in physical or mental truancy. No question was asked as to whether the trouble began with the subject-matter or the method of delivery (p. 46).
This old way of direct instruction is becoming a thing of the past. Siemen (2008) classifies the new role of educators as four metaphors for educators: educator as a master artist; educator as a network administrator; educator as concierge; and finally the educator as curator (p. 15). As an educator among the 21st century, I see myself as becoming a “concierge.” There becomes the need to prepare oneself with the required knowledge and resources to support the learning opportunities my students may not be aware of existing. I want to continue to assist in their learning experiences permitting them to explore options. I need to provide an avenue for my students to reach their academic goal. Often along this path, they will stumble. Their educational journey will require assistance to provide the necessary resource in picking themselves up and brushing themselves off to continue down their path. My supervision as concierge will guide and motivate, as they continue on (without rendering defeat) toward the academic goal.
Works Cited
Dewey, J. (1938/1997). Experience & Education. New York, NY: Touchstone.
Siemens, G. (2008, January 27). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. Paper presented to ITFORUM. Retrieved from http://it.coe.uga.edu/itforum/Paper105/Siemens.pdf
Brenda McKoy: Cheryl Blog 1 Response
ReplyDeleteCheryl,
I agree that educational technology over the years has forced Learning Theorist and the educational community to rethink how people should learn. Researcher and Scientist are continually exploring the brain to isolate the thought processes in learning (Met cognitive vs. cognitive). These discoveries along with learning theorist have lead to examining the roles of instructor as it relates to delivery of instruction (Siemens, 2008).
However, I believe we are in the beginning stages of this evolutionary change in education and need to be cognizant that more research/studies need to be done before making too many changes...
Therefore, it would be prudent to revisiting the Learning theories as they relate to digital learning. Move over, Looking at the four roles teachers will and play in the arena of teaching (Metaphor of educator) educator as a master artist, educator as a network administrator, educator as concierge, and the educator as curator (p. 15). Provide a concrete bases for the most effective instructional approach to integrating technology and engaging student learning.
I believe that the Montessori concept of providing and guiding students their learning is likened somewhat to the educator as a concierge. Like you, I find it fulfilling to observe students explore and connect knowledge in a meaningful way.
I agree with your comment. New legislation and the change to common core has forced us to rethink how students learn. I am a staunch advocate for differentiation in the classroom. The traditional ways of learning are far gone and we as educators must rise to the level of rigor that will be expected of students in the real world.
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