"If the structure does not permit dialogue the structure must be changed" (Paulo Freire)

What is my understanding of new learning?

From this

                                

To this

To demonstrate my understanding of new learning I have selected three of Kalantis and Cope’s (2008) dimensions on theory and practice of New Learning.

Dimension 3: The tools of learning


New learning brings technology into the learning experience. As Kalantis and Cope (2008) is removes boundaries of the traditional classroom allowing individuals to seek information beyond that of text books and beyond those who are physically in the classroom. My personal experience in my partnership schools has helped me develop an understanding of new learning in this regard. This school uses interactive whiteboards, computer labs and laptops. While observing a year 8 history class a student asked the teacher a question they did not know the answer to, the teacher opened his laptop, went to google and within seconds had an answer for the student. I think new learning is opening up an endless amount of possibilities.

Dimension 5: The balance of agency

‘Teachers told and asked, and learners listened and answered (Kalantis & Cope, 2008). New learning moves away from the traditional ‘chalk and talk’ mode of teaching, in which teachers are the transmitters of knowledge. My understanding of this is there is a shift to inquiry based learning in which students take an active role as learners. This plays a large role in my own teaching philosophy.

Dimension 6: The significance of difference

According to this dimension ‘old learning’ took on a one-size fits all model to schooling and curriculum, and those who were not suited towards this simply failed (Kalantis & Cope, 2008). Schools are now offering different programs such as VCAL and recognises different learning styles and multiple intelligences.
Through exploration of these dimensions my own understanding of new learning fits into who I am as a teacher.