Digital Learning is facilitated by technology or instructional practices that make optimal use of technology. Digital learning occurs on most mediums including.
- game-based learning & virtual learning
- accessing digital content
- collaborating locally and globally
- assessment and reporting online
- active participation in online communities
- using technology to connect, collaborate, curate and create (vic.gov.au)
- By the forementioned criteria most teachers cannot replicate the learning styles that were accustomed to them in their formative years. Emphasis is placed on usage of high tech devices like smart phones and laptops and teaching students to use them effectively both for learning and also teach them to deal with the vast network of connectivity they provide. Students in the classroom need to be have coping mechanisms in place to deal with the level of interactivity available to them.
The definition of digital learning differs from place to place. Some just view it as designated computer time for the student while others take is as far as having the students create their own learning agendas while having access to internet and social network sites.
By educating the students to be adept in digital learning practices you are effectively having them check off five very important boxes.
Personalisation: By educating them to be effective communicators and empowering them to the internet. You are letting them add their own strokes to the blank canvas. They have an incredible reach and have access to like minded people to share an idea or ask a question.
Accessibility: Gone are the days where classrooms had a dictionary for every student. Now a days every query can be answered in a very broad manner by just typing it out in a search engine. So this gives them access to vast amounts of data. It is imperative that teachers do their best in teaching them to filter out the good from the bad.
Efficiency: Digital learning makes the process more efficient, Teachers no longer need to print out a copy of the notes to every student instead they can just direct them to the relevant hyperlink and have them get started in the work at hand. Also the submission of assignments and homework can be done online saving time and making the feedback process more efficient.
Cultural Relevance: In the day and age where every kid carries around a smart phone, by not being an active participant in the aforementioned mediums students are limiting themselves vastly. This could set them back from fulfilling their true potential in a competitive world.
Performance: Studies have shown positive impact of technology based learning on students. The level of interactivity has boosted retention rates due to the forever changing nature of the learning.It also offers an interesting way to interact and digest information.
References1. Victoria Gov (2013) Teaching with digital technologies. Retrieved From http://www.education.vic.gov.au/school/teachers/support/Pages/elearningcurriculum.aspx
2 Huffington Post (2014) Technology for School and Teachers 5 reasons why digital learning matters. Retrieved from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/scott-steinberg/technology-for-schools-an_b_2805201.html
