Be it resolved that:
‘Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL)’ and the use of Virtual Learning Environments suggest that learning at the vocational education level can take place completely on-line.
My position is to support LimeGreen team which means that vocational level of learning should be effective, qualitative and holistic education based on Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycles.
 |
| Image retrieved from http://www.brainboxx.co.uk/a3_aspects/pages/kolbcycle.htm |
ICT based Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) and Virtual Learning Environment is an integral part of life and work today and we all, to some extent, live and work in both real and virtual worlds. Every vocational subject requires us to be comfortable online, but being comfortable online is not the same as considering how best we can be taught that subject or acquire desired learning outcomes.
Here are my information of sources, video and diagram to support the idea:
1. Effective teaching and learning in Vocational education : http://www.skillsdevelopment.org/pdf/Effective_teaching_and_learning_in_VE_report.pdf
• UNESCO for its recommendations on Technical and Vocational Training define vocational education as: those aspects of educational process involving, in addition to general education, the studies of technologies and related sciences, and the acquisition of practical skills, attitudes, understanding and knowledge relating to occupations in various sectors of economic and social life. (UNESCO, 2001)
This definition and uses the term ‘vocational education’ in two ways: (a) as the route that enables individuals to gain vocational qualifications; and (b) as work related education that can occur across the curriculum and in a variety of settings, including the workplace. (P79)
• Almost without exception, theories of experiential, activity-based learning (derived from Kolb, 1984) including constructivist theories and situated learning, were prevalent in the observations. This is unsurprising, since they are firmly embedded in initial teacher training, professional development and the common inspection framework. The interviews with staff responsible for professional development confirm that experiential learning is central in vocational learning. (P24)
• Kolb’s set of learning styles is a commonly referenced example. It was developed from his theory of the learning process, known as experiential learning. Experiential learning defines learning as the process whereby knowledge is created through the transformation of experience. Knowledge results from the combination of grasping knowledge and transforming it (Kolb 1984). Kolb expressed this process in what he called the learning cycle. (P104)
• David Kolb’s Learning Cycle : http://www.brainboxx.co.uk/a3_aspects/pages/kolbcycle.htm
• Recent guidance provided by the Excellence Gateway on effective teaching and learning identifies ten approaches to effective pedagogy which have been shown through evidence based research to support improvement in professional practice (P85)
1. experiential learning
2. multi-sensory learning
3. cooperative learning
4. differentiation
5. embedding literacy, language and numeracy
6. assessment for learning
7. learning conversations
8. relating theory to practice
9. e-learning and technology
10. modelling.
2. How to teach vocational education: A theory of vocational pedagogy: http://www.skillsdevelopment.org/PDF/How-to-teach-vocational-education.pdf
• Effective vocational Learning and teaching methods requires a blend of hands-on or first-hand learning with critical reflection, collaboration and feedback in the context of strong relationship between teacher and taught. (P116)
• Learning by practicing
o Effective practising can be brutal; not literally brutal but you break it up; you focus on each little bit. For example, you don’t learn to be a footballer by just going out and constantly playing games. Alison Wolf (p64)
o Instead of developing a coherent body of knowledge that enables them to work effectively with the children in their care, they are developing a set of performance skills that enables them to imitate what they see happening in the workplace. (Alexander, 2001) (P63)
3. Vocational Education and Training in Switzerland: http://youtu.be/lH-QRTxLm28
4. Finish National Board of Education: http://www.opintoluotsi.fi/en-GB/Studies_in_English/Vocational_Education/
Vocational education prepares students for careers that are based in manual or practical activities, and related to a specific occupation or vocation. On-the-job learning is an important part of vocational education.
Finnish Vocational Qualification as some example:
• Culture: http://www.opintoluotsi.fi/en-GB/Studies_in_English/Vocational_Education/
o Further Qualifications for Craft and Design, Theatre and Dance, Music
• Qualifications in Social Services, Health and Sports: http://www.oph.fi/download/139223_brochures_social_services_health_and_sports.pdf
• Agriculture: http://www.oph.fi/download/132289_brochure_natural_resources_and_the_environment.pdf
