More Multimodal Learning

A couple weeks ago, we talked about a few new ways that student engagement could be improved in the classroom. Rote memorization is falling by the wayside while several new formats and practices take its place, and teachers are forging new methods of integrating technology with curriculum. This week, we’ll cover a few more ways that students can play a role in transforming their education.

Many teachers are falling over themselves in the rush to implement 21st century web-based tools in their courses. The common scenario of having an entire class “switch-off” when they enter the classroom is under scrutiny, and some educators are asking why education has chosen to ignore the reality of life as a modern student to instead fall back on tired practices. But those who choose to explore the potential of applications like Facebook and Twitter have not quite fully grasped just how to use these tools for education. As a student, you can play a role in making class time less boring, more fun, and abundantly more educational.

While some teachers may be more open than others to integrating new practices into their teaching style, it’s important to start small. Try suggesting that your teacher records his or her lectures (or maybe bring in a recording device for them) so that audio files are available for reference later, such as for studying or writing a research paper. This also helps capture anything that you may have missed while you jotted down notes. Then, post the lecture in a place where the entire class can access it. Having some notes to listen to on your iPod before taking a test can really help keep all that information in your head.

Much of the same could be said of PowerPoint presentations. If your teacher is a fan of this method of lecturing, tell them about SlideShare.net. This site is a free place to post files like PowerPoint lectures, and can provide access to anyone in the class with an Internet connection.

The ubiquitous application Facebook can also be useful. Consider creating a Facebook Group for your class. This will provide a great space for discussing homework, organizing study groups, posting useful resources, and just about any other communication need. Plus, as a bonus, it gives teachers and students a place to connect outside the classroom, and lets teachers see how students are handling the material (for example: the kind of questions that may be asked regarding a particular essay topic).

A more extreme example would be running some king of educational ARG, or Alternate Reality Game. ARGs are growing in popularity, and have been used for several purposes (especially marketing). What if a teacher set-up an ARG that taught you something? Imagine an Environmental Science course where students had to collect data in the field, make observations, and answer questions through text messaging to find a downed alien spaceship. Or, how about a History lesson where students had to work together to gather clues in a museum, eventually leading them to a particular location to find the answer to a mystery? Odds are, any teacher that went through the effort of setting up an educational ARG would be giving his or her students something they would never forget.

Remember, talk to your teacher first before trying any of these suggestions (they won’t appreciate you posting their lecture all over the Internet without them knowing!). If you can help your teacher understand and implement the tools that you use everyday for fun, the more fun you’ll have with your own education.

How To Find A Tutor

How To Find A Tutor

The process of finding some extra help with schoolwork can seem like a somewhat daunting task. But if you require a little additional help outside of what you normally receive during school hours, a paid professional teacher to go one-on-one with could be the only way to go. Sometimes, all you need is an extra 45 minutes of focused teaching to come away with more confidence, better marks, and a firmer grasp of the concepts and ideas presented in school.

The number one priority you should think about when picking a tutor is what kind of rapport you have with him or her. Unless you are eager and willing to use the tutor as a path towards better grades, the money you pay and the time you spend won’t necessarily be used as effectively as possible. But, if you hold a good relationship with the tutor, there is a better chance that you’ll try harder and achieve more quickly than with a tutor who you are less comfortable with. Make sure to run each candidate through a “trial” session before they are hired in order to see if they are the right choice.

With that said, qualifications and credentials come in an extremely close second place in terms of what to look for in a tutor. Try to find someone who has experience not only teaching, but experience with the specific subject that you have trouble with. Also, you may want to inquire into any experience they might have with particularly troublesome topics (for example: graphing in Algebra for a math tutor). Find out everything, including familiarity with the textbooks, the school, and the curriculum. Also, find out what age group they are used to.

There are many different resources you could use in searching for the right candidate, but the first stop should be at the school. It’s important to see the situation from the perspective of the teacher as well. Talk to the teacher that runs the class you are struggling with. Focus on the problem areas so you have a better idea about what to look for in credentials and qualifications for your tutor. Maybe the teacher herself is a good candidate choice, or she could point you towards other potential tutors.

From there, search all other logical places, such as the classifieds or Internet. You’ll find many different types of services and candidates, and each could be the right choice for you. For example, if it suits your learning style, an online tutor might be more beneficial than a tutor who makes house calls. Don’t be hesitant to consider candidates from professional tutoring companies, but don’t forget to research their background. Typically, you’ll find that the more qualified candidates are freelancers. Also, local universities usually have tutors who are younger and might relate to you more easily.

In the end, a tutor will only help you if you want the help. Try to make the process as easy and pain-free as possible.