During our first workshop, we were asked to give a brief (5 minutes) presentation and introduce ourselves. This included our function within academia, previous history as well as our creative practice.
PGCERT_ONLINE_PRESENTATION_BEN_HIRT
Following the presentations, we were put into breakout groups in order to discuss something we learned about pedagogy and/or pedagogic research and any questions it raised for us. Out of all topics posted, the 3 most voted on got selected for a larger group discussion. I was fortunate enough to have mine selected as one out of three.
The questions below were the ones I posted on the Padlet Board in order to attract a discussion.
On customising the learning experience for large student numbers:
- How can we facilitate each student and their unique learning experience in order to maximise their creative output and outcome.
- How can students foster a personal- and creative understanding of their own educational journey [taking on responsibility]?
- How can education enhance a more customised learning experience when implementing a pedagogical approach?
- How will students feel seen, appreciated and valued again?
- Changes their work ethic, involvement and engagement.
- Assisting students in taking on responsibility in developing their own tools and criticality.
- A student’s time at UNI is unique and once in a life-time. It’s their time to dedicate to themselves; How can we assist each student on their unique journey?
The conversation in our group was quite vivid, energised and at times even a bit emotional. We exchanged personal experiences and thoughts on school environments, classes and student engagement. There was a wider consensus that vast student numbers and a lack of resources (both staff and facilities) impact student engagement. Large cohorts contribute to a feel of anonymity and therefor hinder a palpable sense of identity. Bare classrooms and infrastructure induce a lack of visual identity that transcends into the teaching and learning experience. Students have therefor difficulties identifying themselves with their environment; Student engagement and participation is being jeopardised.