I’ve had the privilege of moving through the evolution of modern learning from one generation to the next (which includes the myriad of challenges that comes with it). The more recent generations of these systems have enabled me to move around more freely on an area of ‘open ground’.

Moving from the print generation, to the multi-media model, to the tele-learning model, on to the interactive multimedia internet-based access model and finally to the intelligent flexible learning model, comprising computer mediated communication, automated response systems*. Begs a question; does this mean that I should be an ‘expert’ of all delivery systems?

My default position has been primarily the first generation and at a push the second and third. Realisation has it that technologies have and are developing at the rate of knots, making it nigh impossible to keep up. As a student, this means that I don’t only have the subject matter to contend with but also that the learning has and is being transported from the lecture theatre to a virtual space which is more complex in nature.

Lecturers are no longer the focal point when it comes to information, with learning being more directed towards the student. As a student must I be able to use various media to communicate with other students and with lecturers? The up side is that technology has overcome the physical distance between teacher and pupil, offering a flexible delivery of learning – a case of anywhere, anytime.

I believe that any change and development must be made and considered from the students stand-point and not the technologist or teachers stand-point. Maybe this is where things have not been thought through enough. Have the changes and development placed enough emphasis on ‘end-user’ needs? Surely technology is a means to an end?

Considering the all-round pace of change, the requirements of all parties the blended learning strategy must be a default option (in my book). It integrates, formal and informal learning, face-to-face and online experiences, directed paths and reliance on self-direction, and digital references and group connections, in order to achieve individual and organisational outcomes.*

Blended learning has enormous potential but it is not a panacea for the woes of education.

Technology is not going to replace teachers. Teachers who know how to work with technology will.

*https://www.saide.org.za/resources/Conf%202010/Ferreira_JG_and_Venter_E_Barriers_to_learning_at_an_ODL_institution.pdf