How can students create a personalized learning pathway and build competencies that would help them gain access to real-world opportunities? How can these students be supported and be connected with peers, mentors, experts in the field, and community interest groups? How can educational technologies be leveraged to build this web of personalized learning pathways and relationships that support learning beyond the formal educational structure?
These are key issues in connected learning and are addressed in this presentation on a connected learning project called “Sky, Water, Earth” (http://www.skywaterearth.ca). "Sky, Water, Earth" is a collection of self-guided learning activities that are grouped by theme and presented in a playlist format, or a sequenced pathway. The themes are competencies valued by future employers in the sciences – scientific communication, creative thinking, and research orientation. These themes are closely aligned with the BC Science Learning Standards. Students choose which playlists to work on, progress at their own pace, earn points as they complete the playlists, and redeem points for real-world opportunities. Some real-world opportunities include Google hangout with scientists, access to networking events, and guided visits to labs at UBC. The presenter will share the project design and development process, contribution of project partners, and initial feedback from educators. The presenter will also lead group discussions on how elements of connected learning (self-selected learning pathways, flexible pace, and community connection) could be incorporated in their own teaching and how to overcome some potential challenges.
