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The following is an abbreviated version of an assignment, asking us to prepare an extended brief on a topic related to our learning. I’ve chosen “Education after the pandemic” and within that, the statement: “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays.”
I tend to think of life in terms of opportunities and solutions, and from an interdisciplinary viewpoint. Which got me thinking about one of my classmate’s observations that their institution has an eagerness to return to the way things were, and in doing so, almost dismissing some of the key learning points that rose out of the pandemic’s forcing us to shift almost entirely to learning online and by distance.
For my briefing, I’m looking at education post pandemic and am tackling the statement “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays”, and use the business world’s analysis tool of SWOT — Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats — to help make the case.
STRENGTHS
Of the argument “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays.”
Recorded lessons and instruction mean the video and the audio can be played back at the learner’s convenience, and multiple times. Replaying allowed learners to play back at different speeds, to reverse to fast forward, and to pause. Pausing allowed learners to take notes.
The pandemic reminded us that learners have different learning styles and how the rise of prominent video platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok are being used as informal means of education.
WEAKNESSES
Of the argument “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays.”
Live streaming, while better than replays, did not allow for the spontaneity and richness that occurs during in-person interactions.
We have witnessed an imbalance in connectivity once away from learning institutions and places where reasonably stable connectivity is available.
OPPORTUNITIES
Of the argument “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays.”
A library of learning addresses inclusion and flexibility goals of education while staying in step with technological advances and the growing trend toward hybrid models of education delivery.
Technology and software providers have recognized the growth potential of education and are eager to partner with learning institutions to not only form stable and long-lasting partnerships, but to spur growth in new directions.
THREATS
Of the argument “Learners need the continuance of some form of video replays.”
By its nature, video is a passive medium and is not as interactive as being in-person. We need to keep using features that encourage engagement and lively discussion, whether that is posing questions during the lessons, incorporating individual or group exercises, and breakout rooms.
Example References
