education

Rethinking Mobile Learning & the Promise of Flying Cars

/ Andrew

Presented at Penn State Web Conference 2014

Mobile technology innovation and growth have outpaced and outgrown our current teaching ideals and delivery methodologies at all levels of education. We are entering into a perfect storm for m-learning. Instead of top-down transmitting models, we could engage learners with collaborative models that are already in place via text messaging, and crowd sourcing that are available via social networks. We could encourage anywhere, anytime learning through instant access to information and more satisfying inquiry for teachers and learners. What is lacking in online learning delivery is the integration of mobile for content, access to course content and creating situated learning. The future of learning opportunities lies in context-aware ubiquitous learning, leveraging peer-to-peer, personalization, and multimedia interaction. Digital is the old way of thinking. Mobile is the new way – the way we think today.

What Makes a Good Theory?

/ Andrew

On a macro level. “What makes a good theory?” can be broken down into three possible categories. Is the theory accessible, does it resonate, and can you apply it in the classroom?

Accessibility: A good theory is accessible to the person exploring the theory. Is the theory stated or explained in a way that makes the content approachable and can it be synthesized by the reader? Does an understanding of the theory depend heavily on possessing previous knowledge? Does the theory reference the work of other researchers? How much background information does the reader require?

Resonance: A good theory resonates or “speaks to” the reader or teacher. As a teacher, we encounter different situations and types of learners within the classroom environment and these experiences can change how we view teaching or transfer knowledge to learners subsequently. If a theory makes a connection with our “real world” experiences, we can have a “eureka” moment that can change or influence how we teach or interact with learners in the future.

Application: A good theory allows a teacher to apply all or parts of the theory to their individual teaching style. It can be provide us with a means of creating a connection for students with the learning materials or course content.

IxDA Education Panel

/ Andrew

Last night I took apart in a panel discussion on the general state of interaction design education at IxDA Toronto.

My fellow panelists included a senior Digital Planner from a large agency, an interaction designer/educator from a design studio and designer who recently graduated from a MDes IxD program. The main theme of the rich discussion was that UX career paths are not “one size fits all” and that people in UX benefit from their past experiences and the skill sets they bring from their education and work history. Individuals follow diverse paths to end up in the UX field. Some people began with formal education in a completely different field (accounting, computer science, information science, fine art and design).  Others fall into the role by learning on the job or are self-taught.