One of the readings that really captured my attention this week was the one on conceptual framework. In the blended learning described section, I could certainly relate the content to my current courses. I think all my profs have been really good at avoiding layering on too many activities and responsibilities to the point where the course is unmanageable. Additionally, being given the opportunity to have discussion posts where we can comment and engage in conversation allow for that shared understanding component. I now have a clearer idea of how blended learning allows for essentially the best of both worlds as they come together to challenge students in ways not possible through just one mode individually. As I am in elementary education, I have learnt a ton about inquiry. However, this was the first time I have learnt about the Community of Inquiry Framework so it really piqued my interest. It’s really interesting when you dissect and consider the dynamic and look into each component of social, teaching and cognitive presence.
The other reading I found super interesting was the one on ethical challenges of edtech. It was interesting to read up on the ethical concerns of data collection when it comes to curating a personalized learning experience. Something that I never considered was how the educational relationship is a mandatory one, thus making the data collection on students unavoidable. The option to opt out really ceases to exist in that sense, it’s just a matter of how much gets collected. I feel as if the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to data collection vs personalized learning experience, I think there are so many benefits that come out of having an educational career that is catered to you. One thing that I had never heard of before reading is the two different types of data in the education arena: administrative and learning process data. I understand what administrative data is, but still a little unclear on what learning process data is. Going forward, I would like to further look into it so I have a better understanding on how the process of data collection in the education systems looks like.
