Views from the Haystack

I must say the that the CMAP tool offers a shift in thinking, constructing phrases that link ideas and thoughts for a deeper meaning than a simple flowchart. I have four of these maps on the go for diverse functions, including a description of my own roles and responsibilities!

However, I have selected to post one regarding a typical student learning cycle. This is particularly relevant since we have seen so many Web 2.0 tools in this course and wonder how many of these may fit into teaching and learning. Well regardless of the tool you may choose there are some key components in the learning cycle that bring about the affordance of the tool in learning.  Several colleagues and I have been sharing ideas on curriculum mapping and the overall conclusion was that this should be closely linked to the learning material , lessons and feedback  on progress in order to achieve the goal of individualized learning. Such a comprehensive system is scarce and unless we continue to push developers to create this solution all tools of support (including the many web 2.0 tools) will be marginalized.

In map above, I have distinctly taken several paths that an ‘intelligent’  learning solution should have as basic components.  There should be  a direct link for curriculum mapping for teacher and student, along with drill down sample lessons for every learning objective and system should be capable to provide feedback and monitor progress. If the system learns about the user and adjusts the curriculum pathway based on feedback and progress, a system profile is created and thus reach individualized learning.

My thanks to all of you for sharing your ideas  in this course, I hope our paths will cross again.