Digital Classroom
What is a Digital Classroom?
It is a classroom where electronic devices and softwares are integrated into the learning environment of the learner . Now using a projector or digital whiteboard does not mean your classroom has become a digital classroom. And before you say the class you conduct online is a digital classroom let us stop and understand what exactly makes a classroom a digital classroom.
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No fixed teacher: We believe strongly that our curriculum in school is supposed to be covered by a fixed set of educators. As educators it is important that you deliver your lessons in the best efficient manner but being citizens of the digital era we have to accept that connectivity is global. You can have educators across the nation and globe that can be teaching learners lessons.
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The lessons have a set flow: It is important that the lessons are data driven. Learners should be able to understand the concrete concepts of the world around them. But retaining data is not the true essence of education Learners should be able to connect that data to the world around them.
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Feedback loop: : Evaluation and assessment of knowledge is a debatable concept. Traditionally we perform mid and final semester exams that assess the understanding of learners. The gap between lessons and exams can be long, and learners start developing gaps in their understanding and knowledge towards concepts. It is important that interactive activities that not only focus on covering the lesson in class but also help them build a life skill also. It is the educator’s responsibility to ensure that they provide the learner with feedback telling them whether they are on the right track.
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Educational apps and Softwares: This was almost a given. But it is important to take the aid of educational apps and softwares. Educational apps help enable remote learning. They allow a fixed platform where learners and educators can communicate. Educators are able to share their resources and learners are able to access resources whenever they want.
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Unlimited access to data
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Effective Pedagogy for Digital classrooms:
The point of the article is not to preach that one educational pedagogy is effective over the other. However, when deciding a pedagogy it is important to remember some points: The following points should be kept in mind when choosing a pedagogy for digital classrooms:
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Learners should do most of the work: A digital classroom gives access to unlimited data and resources. Educators should understand that they are just the ones to provide directions to learners but learners should be responsible for taking charge of their own learning experience.
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Interactivity: Interaction should be the heart and soul of the classroom! This can be achieved through discussions of brainstorming, peer to peer assessments, and discussions. Learners should feel that the classroom is a safe space for them to express their thoughts and ideas. As an educator it is important that learners are provided the right line of directions if they are having a gap in their understanding.
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The presence of the educator! With the pandemic and digital classroom set up it may not be possible to have a direct physical presence of the educator in a class. It is important that the educator covers their presence through their teaching and social engagement.
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The pedagogies adapted by the educator should be mindful of the new demands of students. Learners want to adopt more independent approaches when acquiring their knowledge. The knowledge the learners acquire should be made relevant to them. A real life connection should be established.