Mc² = E Learning Reflections

Downloadable Copy of Transcription Downloadable Copy of Presentation Slides Abstract The potential of mobile technology to enhance learning and teaching practice has been recognised in various academic studies (Xiao (2020); MacCallum et al. (2017); Mohammadi et al. (2020)) and the learning opportunities afforded through the use of mobile devices are complimented by a number of learning theories including connectivism (Siemens, 2004 as cited by Manchester University, ND) and social constructivism (Vygotsky, 1978 as cited by McLeod, 2019) .   In contrast however, policies on learner behaviour management coupled with issues relating to the individual and collective identities of educators have led to resistance in the adoption of mobile technology within learning and teaching practice.   Indeed removal of mobile devices is still used as a punitive action against learners where the devices themselves are deemed a classroom distraction by educators.   Yet, studies address...

Hello to all my amazing readers out there.  I hope you've all enjoyed my writings and reflections over the past weeks, but this time I'm wondering if I can ask you for some help. (A poster created for my presentation at the Open University's H818 Online Conference) I'm a literacy educator working in Scotland and I'm passionate about mobile learning.  From my own experience as a mobile blogger I wanted to create a course that would support other educators in developing their understanding of digital pedagogy, develop an appreciation for the benefits and challenges of blogging and, in combining blogging with the afforances of mobile devices, spark creative discussion which might encourage other educators to use this in their own scholarship practice or as a vehicle to promote literacy development with their learners.   As such I've created a course using the Open University's Open Learn platform which is free for anyone to access.   Here is the link to the co...

I was out for a walk today and enjoying the Autumn views. All part of me trying to do some mindfulness practice.  But when the views are this beautiful, its not difficult.   I've been thinking recently about a lot of things.  But, if you read my previous blog post you'll know some of my reasons.   Today I've been thinking specifically about motivation, where it comes from, and why it matters because my motivation recently has taken a real nose dive.   Today I got up at around 10am and thought, "Nope!  I cannot face this day."  I decided to stay in bed and hide under the covers until well into the afternoon.  And now that its night time, I've achieved nothing.  I thought today a lot about what motivates me.   Every educator knows Maslow's (1946, as cited by McLeod, 2020) Heirarchy of Needs... ( "Maslow"   by  wilgengebroed  is licensed under  CC BY-NC ...

Well, this is the start of a new and interesting journey for me.  Who knows where this will go.  It's exciting and slightly terrifying at the same time.  But all journeys start with one small step.  So here we go! Step 1 :  I suppose I should start by explaining my context, why I'm writing this blog and what I hope you, my readers, will get from sharing in my journey.  (With that in mind, please do make use of the comments facility below - an important part of this learning journey will involve listening to your thoughts and experiences in order to broaden and challenge my own thinking.  All I would ask is that comments are made in a mutually respectful way).   I'm writing this blog from the point of view of an educator.   I studied my undergraduate degree with the Open University (UK) and went on to work as  a literacy practitioner in the FE sector.  I've worked in the field of adult learning for s...