Conclusion

=So what does all this mean for e-learning in New Zealand and Australia? =

In conclusion, the vision, implementation and practice of e-learning in New Zealand and Australian schools is incredibly similar. Part of this is due to the close educational ties between the 2 countries and the shared belief in learner-centred education. Of particular note, although both countries have a clear ICT vision and policy there are inconsistencies in the uptake of, and innovative use of, e-learning throughout each country, varying from teacher to teacher, from school to school and from learning context to learning context. Current practice for both countries in e-learning is essentially linked to ‘best’ practice, meaning that ICT is an add-on to the existing classroom pedagogy and practice. ICT is another teaching tool. There is little wide-spread e-learning innovation.

If 'The Big ideas' and perceived value of ICT and learning are indeed accurate, Then there is a need for bringing schools into the "Digital Age" and support teachers and schools in using ICT to open up new and different ways of learning. This wiki has highlighted the need for more action around e-learning in schools if it is to be more than an add-on to current practice. These actions could include:


 * Developing strategies that educate teachers and leaders about e-learning and the potential that is has for transforming learning.
 * Learning more about how good teachers teach in technology rich environments and identifying successful strategies for using ICT to open up new ways of learning.
 * Developing more ways to share effective practice in a collaborative way throughout the learning community.
 * Developing more ways to identify what the barriers are that are preventing teachers from using ICT as more than a tool.
 * Implementing more ways to address these issues.
 * Developing more effective national leadership in e-learning that is well-coordinated to support addressing the diparities in practice.

These actions are necessary to ensure that all teachers and all schools get the support, evidence and inspiration needed to walk with their students into the 21st Century.

Question
 * = Green Hat

New Ideas || || Do you believe that teachers and students will use ICT in radically different ways in the future?

Justify your response.

List and rate the most important skills that you believe teachers will need for school education in the 21st century. ||