Category: LRNT 622

For the theory that underpins my research, I am leaning toward constructivist learning theory, but have also considered transformational leadership theory. So for context here is my research question framework thus far:

1. How might digital learning pedagogy drive curricular change in a way that aligns with student centred learning?
   1. What factors might be taken into consideration when gauging the impact of digital pedagogy?
   2. In what ways might teachers be engaged to support digital learning pedagogy?
   3. What strategies might be used to allow digital pedagogy to evolve to respond to future shifts?

For the actual pedagogical aspects of how learning will change with a modernised curriculum that focuses on digital and student centred learning, constructivist learning theory seems to make sense. However, the actual achieving change within a curriculum in any direction, may suggest framing the research with transformational leadership theory.

I am definitely more comfortable with my constructivist learning theory knowledge, which involves students making meaning from the materials they are presented, and driving their learning as the focus of this learning. My knowledge of the transformational leadership theory consists mostly of cursary knowledge based on some initial article skimming. Having not focussed on this theory at all in my professional or academic life, it would be the steeper learning curve, but I am not daunted by this if it is the proper choice. My understanding of this theory is that it is focuses on a leader trying to identify stakeholder needs in managing change, and then motivate his/her team to achieve certain goals. The theory, I think, is built around the motivational tactics that are necessary to achieve these goals.

Given that bringing digital and student centred learning into a changing curriculum this theory would seem to be apt for my cause, but given my current sub-questions focussing more on the pedagogy behind the curricular change might be the right choice. But, I would sure love some more enlightened opinions!!!

The more I think, the more I am coming to terms with what I want to research, but I am still not completely convinced, here is a recap of where I think I might head:

How can digital learning pedagogy drive curricular change in a meaningful way? More specifically, how can educators employ student centred learning strategies using technology as the driving force, while ensuring that actual learning takes place considering the immaturity of secondary students, when compared to adult learners. What sort of shift does there need to be in teaching practice and training for this to effectively occur? Finally, how can we devise a method that accounts for future change and technological advances.

My aim in taking this program was to see what educational opportunities lay within the field of education, but exisited outside of the classroom. Since I have dedicated my teaching career to  upskilling in all things e-learning, I also hope to pursue something related to this aspect of the field of education once I am finished.  Living and working in Colombia for the time being, most of my friends are either other teachers, or digital nomads and the lifestyle of this latter group interests me. So, I am now beginning to sew the seeds that will hopefully begin my transition out of the classroom, this is of course if my home brewing business does not take off in the meantime!

I have begun looking into digital and social media marketing and branding to learn about how I will sell my skills in my post masters/post classroom life. I am trying to start more of a digital presence, and network as much as I can. I hope to publish what I create, at the very least on my own website, and perhaps, (depending on the tack I take) design a professional development program around what I end up researching that I can then offer to various educational institutions. My hope also, is that international borders, will not be much of an issue. I would love to be published in a reputable journal, but if I am honest with myself at this stage in my life, I am exhausted and not feeling super confident about writing something worthy of such acclaim, but it is early days in the research process, I guess we will see. Another question here is, how does one get himself published?

Compounding all of this is the fact that I still don’t really know enough about how to market myself professionally, or how to design something that people will want to employ. I am hoping that by leaning on my network in the coming months, and asking lots of questions to people who hopefully have some answers for me, the picture will come into focus.