What if a fifth grader could learn college-level physics concepts? What if the platform used to teach those concepts could be accessed very simply online through a Web browser? What if that new methodology allowed students to write computer programs, progress at their own pace and provide the teacher immediate feedback on individual progress? As it turns out, these questions are not just ‘what ifs’ thanks to several groundbreaking education technology platforms under development in labs across the Peabody campus. These innovations allow cutting-edge researchers to harness innovators of the technology described, call the virtue in virtuality.
Common among these developing platforms is their commitment to accessibility, focus on efficiency and effectiveness, and an emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) topics. A driving theme is a desire to free teachers up for more instructional time and, ultimately, improve learning outcomes. Technological innovations always begin with a passion to tackle intransigent problems. Once a problem in need of a solution is identified, then we ask, ‘To what extent could the use of technology make this more accessible to learners?’ The technology comes in on the back end researchers state.
More information:
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/magazines/peabody-reflector/2011/06/the-virtue-in-virtuality/
More information:
http://www.vanderbilt.edu/magazines/peabody-reflector/2011/06/the-virtue-in-virtuality/