WEEK 7:Learner Autonomy and one computer class

LEARNER AUTOOMYN

This week I have learned tha teachers are unanimous about learner autonomy. I am encouraged to know that teachers all over the world  want to stop  spoon feeeding students  and  make them more independent in carrying out various tasks. The idea of constructivism again came out this week.We neeed to build students who have self esteem,who can believe in themselves and a student who is a finished product so that after school he/she can readily get integrated in the wider society.

The wisdom behind ecouraging learner autonomy is among other things to make the learner self-reliant and reduce dependence  on the teacher.If well implemented, learner autonomy will reduce the teacher into a counsellor or mananger whose work is to oversee performance of tasks.But this should not create skivers among us teachers.Our new role is to provide materials and resources to help learners become autonomous.

Literature teachers should allow learners to think for themselves rather than force them to think in a particular way learners should be given freedom to analyse a novel and give it interpretation based on their experience. This will develope ceitical thinking in our students .LET'S NOT CREATE ROBOTS.

For young children, teacher's presence is still necessary  in order to keep checks on what they as these kids' minds are not fully developed, but this does not mean they cannot accomplish tasks on their own. We are advised to start encouraging autonomy early so that our students grow with it.

ONE COMPUTER CLASS
One does not need 100 computers to teach afer all. This was another great learning this week. A school needs just a simple computer lab and with the help of a duty rota, every teacher can access the computers. Some teachers have tried it and it has worked. It is an idea I feel I must try.It is also worth noting that with one or a hundred computers, the teacher remains the 'best computer'.

I've read classsmates' posts and I  admit they are steps ahead  of some of us.Those like me who are not advantaged to have some of these technologies, should take consolation that it starts somewhere and soon we shall be there. I got useful encouragement from some classmates and  I'm very greatful for their willingness to share their experiences.

Robert deserves commendations for selecting very helpful articles for the week. I'm sure they will be useful even after the course.

I wish everyone a successful week 9, karibu sana(welcome)