FLANZ - DAY 2 afternoon

 

After lunch, I present ‘a model for supporting flexible practice-based learning'. Basically a summary of the concepts and discussions for the forthcoming book ‘digitally-enabling ‘learning by doing’ for vocational education’. Practice-based learning can be difficult to deliver fully online. However, by focusing on the main purposes of practice-based learning and ensuring these were supported is recommended. Important to support access to ‘rich’ pedagogical experiences/authentic learning using a range of strategies (not all digital); modelling of practice; helping to make ‘thinking visible’; and guiding learning. A framework – the push-connect the learning-pull approach may be useful to help decide on what to provide to learners (push); how to bring participation from learners (pull); and the importance of learning sessions to consolidate learning (connect the learning).

Following is M. Armstrong Wilcocks presenting on ”flexible learning for gifted learners: gifted online”. Summarised the needs of gifted learners (6 – 13 years old). NZ Centre for gifted education is a not for profit who empower extraordinary minds. There are systems support but not only school support is required by outside of school as well. Gifted online is used to provide flexible learning – with gifted lens. In general, provides resources for specialist curriculum, specialist pedagogy advise to allow for personalisation of learning and to help them develop autonomy and self-direction. Shared the specialist curriculum which consist of content strands (conceptual, talent and personal development) and process strands (research, communication and complex thinking). Summarised various programmes available to support students. 

The last session is ‘the great debate’ around the theme ‘learners do not achieve their full potential under flexible learning conditions’. Each debater had 3 minutes to make their point with a one minute wrap up from each team. Good points from each side :) 

Overall, an interesting range of presentations and conversations across the two days. The opportunity to network with a small group of kindred spirits much appreciated. There were a few small technical glitches as the conference used zoom rather than a dedicated conference platform. However, these disruptions were minimal and did not detract from the presentations. My thanks to the tech team and colleagues at the University of Canterbury (UC) satellite for their support and collegiality.