LIT2T Leadership Guide

12 TO: TABLE OF CONTENTS The courseware also provides online communication tools that support development of social media skills. These tools also support a teacher’s efforts to expand the classroom community into an online community. The project aims to harness contemporary community building tools and therefore we chose resources that are user-friendly and commonly used. We decided on three technologies as a means of creating community among settlement language professionals: a micro blogging resource (Twitter), an audio broadcast resource (Podomatic), and a multimedia instructional source (YouTube). Each of these technologies is available from our web portal at learnit2teach.org . This portal further encourages community through podcasts, support media, a digital newsletter, featured items and links to all elements of the project. Our digital newsletter informs all members of the LearnIT2teach community of project updates, TELL and E-learning news, featured blogs, jobs, professional development opportunities and new online resources. For quick access to recent project information, the most recent Twitter posts are available at the portal front page. 3.1.1 Learning Approach – Blended Learning Blended or hybrid learning involves combining face-to-face classroommethods with computer, tablet or smartphone-based activities and resources. In a blended context, the instructors can facilitate learning in a computer room, assign learners online work to be completed outside of class or integrate information technology into a traditional classroom; for example, by incorporating a YouTube movie into language practice. Blended Learning Approach – Flipped Learning Flipped learning is a blended learning approach that involves the instructor inverting the learning sequence and venue. The instructor assigns materials for reading, viewing or interaction before or after the face-to-face in-class session depending on the instructor’s requirements. In this approach learner’s responsibility in the learning process is amplified. Blended Learning Drivers There are several pedagogical reasons for promoting blended learninThe ability to improve personalized learning which complements the PBLA approach and student centred learning. Student centred learning leads to greater potential for individual progres As blended learning opens up a multimodal tool set of learning events, there is a possibility of improved student engagement and increased motivation. Since blended learning allows ubiquitous access to online resources the digital divide is reduced and access to resources allow students more time to engage with resources. Blended Learning Modalities Blended learning modalities refer to the configuration of online resources, interaction and physical proximity of resources and stakeholder. Blended learning modalities that are possible with edulinc courses include face-to-face driver, the Flex model, Self-blend model and in some cases the Self –drive model. The courseware is highly flexible and may be used in a range of modalities – for example, guided or autonomous or semi-autonomous distance learning. LMS-based online language training courseware is already being used in parts of Canada to reach isolated learners who are not able to attend a face-to-face class every day. In certain situations, online materials can assist with events such as learner illness, course revision or remedial work, or late course registration due to continuous intake.