Pedagogical Model for Online Learning - ISBN-13: 978-1-936338-99-3

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Pedagogical model for online learning: the case of System Engineering Subjects at National University of Southern Patagonia Gabriela VILANOVA Institute of Applied Technology (ITA), National University of Southern Patagonia 9000 -Juan Jose Paso 513 – B° Palazzo - Comodoro Rivadavia – CHUBUT – ARGENTINA Phone: 54-297-4549550, e-mail: vilanova@uolsinectis.com.ar and Jorge VARAS Institute of Work, Economy and Territory (ITET), National University of Southern Patagonia 9000 - Juan Jose Paso 513 – B° Palazzo - Comodoro Rivadavia – CHUBUT – ARGENTINA Phone: 54-297-4549550, e-mail: jrvaras@uolsinectis.com.ar

ABSTRACT This essay aims to address the challenges faced by teachers in pursuing teaching and learning processes in virtual learning environments at university with a network learning perspective, flexible education and a teaching process design. In this paper, we describe our experience with Unpabimodal system based on Moodle platform at National University of Southern Patagonia Argentina in two System Engineering subjects, Analysis and Design Software and Safety, Health and Environmental Management (Caleta Olivia Academic Unit). Educational processes have been modified to suit current social conditions. At the same time, the introduction of technology for the educational field has given rise to a new scenario based on the use of ICT (Information and Communication Technology), which provides with a different learning process. Specifically, some experts agree with the idea of showing the key role of the university as "the institution of the network society”. In this sense, nowadays higher education institutions have to challenge its former image to suit XXI century students´ interests. As a result, institutions must meet the current demands of society and ensure students acquire the skills needed in the present and future working environment.

Keywords: Pedagogic innovation, virtual learning environment, flexible education, emergent pedagogical models.

1. INTRODUCTION The characteristics of globalization and the advancement of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) force to develop and carry out strategies to exploit the opportunities they offer in all the areas of modern society. The new teaching systems, configured around telecommunications and interactive technologies, require a redefinition of traditional models to lead students to a more flexible kind of teaching and learning process, such as the one suggested by Unpabimodal pedagogical model. [1] From a pedagogical perspective, approaches related to flexible education, from ordinary classrooms, blended to distant learning, can make a new concept when it provides students with

a variety of means and ability to make decisions about learning [2, 3] There is not only one e-learning model but different enhancements of models of existing learning. [4] They define key terms as follows: o

Theories of learning provide accounts of the variables which influence the learning process and explain the way in which that influence occurs.

o

Pedagogical frameworks describe the broad principles through which theories are applied to learning and teaching practice.

o

Models of e-learning describe where technology plays a specific role in supporting learning.

The application of ICT training activities under the concept of flexible learning opens several fronts of change and renewal to consider: • Changes in conceptions (how to work in the classroom, the new teacher´s role, etc.) • Changes in the basic resources: Files (materials, etc.), infrastructure (technological access, etc.), and open use of these resources for teachers and students. • Changes in the teachers and students´ practice. The training methods based on ICT lead to new conceptions of the learning process that emphasize the students ‘active involvement not only in the process of building knowledge but also in the emotional and intellectual skills at different levels. Therefore, the preparation of young people to take responsibility in a fast and ever changing world, requires flexibility to enter a workplace that considers long training and life-skills necessary for this continuous learning [2, 5]. The challenges of organizing the teaching-learning process will depend largely on the stage of learning (the home, the workplace or a learning resource center) and the space-time framework for the users to develop learning activities.


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