Open and Online Learning Environments

To define open learning, it is a constructivist method that allows students to explore as they learn. Students are encouraged to research topics independently to gain knowledge. When the platform to experience open learning is based on-line, the definition is slightly different. Allessi and Trollip state “computer-based OLEs are well integrated collections of tools, information resources, and sometimes pedagogical supports that facilitate learning in flexible, somewhat learner-controlled, and motivating ways”, p. 320.


As a science teacher I fully support the open learning premise. Virtual labs can allow for individual and collaborative explorations. Students can even create their own labs to test concepts. The blog chosen this week to critique on our current topic is by Harry Keller at http://smartscience.blogspot.com/2008/10/blending-virtual-and-physical.html

Mr. Keller explains that simulations should not be considered a lab experience because students are not able to truly explore concepts. He supports virtual labs because they give students more opportunity that real labs. He says “we fill the hands-on experiment gap. Due to time, safety, cost, space, and other considerations, students don't investigate fully. They may do a single experiment, for example. By providing a rich set of virtual (but real) experiments, we allow students to investigate more completely” (2008, ¶ 7).

I agree with Mr. Keller. In addition, hands on labs can be messy and not all students want to comply with lab safety rules. Those factors as well as having to schedule lab time around other teachers’ schedules, affect the frequency of lab visits. Virtual labs can occur from anywhere software or kits can be used. Moreover, students can focus more time on the activity and less time on set-up and clean-up because in most cases virtual labs are computer-based.


References:

Alessi, S. M., & Trollip, S. R. (2001). Multimedia for learning. Methods and development. (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn and Bacon.

Keller, Harry. (2008). Great science labs take great effort. Retrieved April 2, 2009 from http://smartscience.blogspot.com/2008/10/blending-virtual-and-physical.html