Page 74 - Microsoft Word - The Future of Learning April 2017.docx

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Section 1:
Summary and Questions
Learning is far more complex than we ever imagined. In this emerging model, humans have four+1 learning systems that work together in an integrated manner. Four of the learning systems are reasonably equitable for everyone. However, our sequencing learning system is the exception to this rule. Of the four+1 learning systems, the adaptation of sequencing to learn via rote has the broadest distribution curve of success due to the learning system depending on both our learners very recent genetic and environmental heritage .
We can minimise the amount of rote learning by encouraging learners to access and remember knowledge ‘Just-In-Time’, as well as focussing on building ideas and concepts that underpin understanding. In this way, we can substantively improve the equity of learner outcomes.
Unfortunately, emergent reading and writing capability requires large amounts of rote learning, and there is no way around this. However, with new technologies we can now offer those learners who struggle with rote learning processes, the opportunity to access information and record their understanding of what they have viewed or listened to, using video rather than having to learn and record that information in a written format.
The application of video for both enhancing learning and creating a record of the learner’s understanding enables their learning progress to be as equitable as all other learners.
The four key elements for efficient learning include:
• keeping the amount of rote learning to a minimum and introducing new knowledge Just-In- Time
• focussing on a conceptual approach for ‘units of work’ rather than thematic ones
• ensuring that initial contexts that learners are introduced to are ‘safe’. A safe context is one where the learner has the appropriate vocabulary and experiences to make sense of the context
• concepts need to be introduced in the correct sequence and understood across increasingly more challenging contexts as the learner is cognitively able to cope with these
The challenge we are presented with here is ensuring that educators have a thorough understanding of the underlying concepts and concept frameworks that form the foundation of each of the disciplines. Introducing clear learning intentions fundamentally changes the way in which learning is structured.