Before I start this blog I would like to thank Dr. George Veletsianos for answering the question I had posed to him in our final class assignment, reflecting on what we have learned about critical academic reading and writing. The question I had posed was if there was an aspect of technology in education where he had changed his mind or shifted his perspective over the years, and I truly appreciate his insightful response. It also got me thinking more about pedagogical agents and how they are used in some of the eLearning modules I’ve created. When I’m creating one of these characters for a learning video or eLearning module, am I doing this simply to mimic an instructor lecturing at a learner? Or, am I using this character to help guide the learner and generate more critical thinking? I have not yet used AI to make characters in eLearning dynamically interactive so I know this does not address the exact situation George was describing (Veletsianos, 2023, 0:10 – 4:35), but it has caused me to reflect critically at my own actions as an instructional designer.
One reason why I asked George this question was because one of my intentions in entering the MALAT program is not to simply gain experience with Learning and Technology at this particular point of time, but in a broader sense to help me build a critical framework through which I can evaluate educational technologies as they evolve. I fully expect that dozens (if not hundreds) of new EdTech tools, ideas, and strategies will enter the mainstream in our field by the time I finish this program. There is simply no way for an EdTech enthusiast to be an expert in all the latest advancements. However, if I can become more proficient in researching these technologies, evaluating their potential, and looking at them with a critical eye I think I can be more effective in recommending the best tools, ideas, or educational strategies to address learning problems I am approached with.
See you in 523 – Foundations of Learning and Technologies!
References
Veletsianos, G. (2023, August 14). LRNT 522 Questions about Research for George Veletsianos: Team Two Response. https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/0u3c24f10hs9osnkbvt77/Input-Device-Recording-20230814-0901.mp3?rlkey=verm75jmuuiouay3ju6696bay&dl=0
I couldn’t agree more with the thoughts you expressed in response to one of George Veletsianos’ podcast. Having a critical eye is huge!