Post-modern Models of Learning

I will try and paint a verbal picture of what I think post modern learning models look like. I am thinking about the learning models as complex shapes and permutations. There are subtle nuances of colour and pattern within the myriad of complex shapes.

The combinations of shapes, colours and patterns represent the models of learning that are possible and make it feasible to create a custom fit to the needs of your learners.

Some of the things that come up when custom fitting learner needs are:
- Flexibility in timing, delivery mode/s learning styles, conversation style, assessment methods and strategies, support
- Context and content of the course or qualification
- Learner profiles, individual needs and preferences

Here is a couple of technology assisted learning models out of a possible zillion I suspect:

Model 1 - Uses mobile phone and SMS based Study Txt model, supported by del.ici.ous tags housing resources, video blogs capture evidence of achivement. Follow the link from Study Txt model to see a video of Peter Mellow giving a demonstration of how Study Txt works.

Model 2 - A Personal Learning Environment - Sean Fitzgeral explains the concept and practice very well here.

Model 3 - Using a group blog or wiki to collaborate and grow learning materials, videos on YouTube and photos on Flickr with common tags used by the group, RSS feeds - posted on blog or wiki.
In Knowlege Sharing with Distributed Network Tools Leigh Blackall and Sean FitzGerald demonstrate some of the online tools that can be used to share knowledge - social software, web feeds, tagging and Creative Commons licensing - and discuss how they are part of the emerging networked learning paradigm

Each of these models are achievable and accessible using a Personal Digital Assistant or Smartphone.

So, I have had a go, from my own available experience. You have other experiences and would come up with other models. Have a go, I want to talk to you about them.

This is where my spruiking about being an unexpert becomes concrete. The reason for not bowing to experts, or waiting to become one is that your learners have needs that need meeting now.

In the many presentations about Using Mobile Phones and Wireless Technology in Learning I rsisted articulating made up solutions to made up problems. What was really important was to hold a space for the participants to use their own expertise of the learners needs. Providing them with enough information to start them off maybe gain some inspiration from myself as a non techie unexpert.

We have new tools to add to our master craftmens and craftwomens collection of tools that we use in the conversation with learners, and my view from over twenty years in Vocational Training and Education is that there are plenty of master craftmen/women out there who are more than ready and willing to participate and contribute to a 21st century learning conversation with other learners.