Blog Post #4: Embracing Open Pedagogy
Introduction
My academic journey has been profoundly influenced by the discovery and use of Open Educational Resources (OER). These resources have opened up new ways for me to access, interact with, and understand course materials, making learning more adaptable and accessible.
Understanding Open Pedagogy:
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Open Pedagogy has revolutionized the traditional teaching model by fostering an environment where learning is a collaborative process. Unlike conventional methods that often promote a passive reception of information, Open Pedagogy encourages active participation and co-creation of learning materials, which provides a larger toolbox of knowledge for educators and students alike. This approach has empowered me to take a more active role in my education, allowing for a deeper connection with the course content.
Practical Application of Open Pedagogy:
A standout example of Open Pedagogy in action was during on elf my sociology seminar classes last year. The majority of the semester was dedicated to student-driven learning, where we worked in pairs to teach the entire class. Each group selected a topic, developed a comprehensive presentation, and then led the class discussion. This method not only enhanced our understanding of the sociological concepts, but also honed our skills in research, presentation, and collaboration, embodying the core attributes of Open Pedagogy such as student-centered learning and empowerment.
Empowering Students through Open Pedagogy:
The experience in my sociology class is a testament to how Open Pedagogy can transform the educational experience. Katherine Cadwell’s TEDx talk on how students should lead the classroom further underscores this point. She discusses the shift from teach-led to student-centered learning, which resonates deeply with my own experiences. Her insights serve as a powerful reminder of the potential of Open Pedagogy to create educational environments where students feel genuinely involved and valued.
The Role and Impact of OER:
OER have been instrumental in my studies, providing accessible, high-quality resources at no cost. These resources have alleviated the financial burdens associated with expensive textbooks and offered diverse learning tools that cater to different academic needs and learning styles. Katie Gosa’s Tedx talk on OER highlights how these resources reduce educational costs and improve accessibility, further enhancing the equitable and innovative nature of teaching methods across diverse educational landscapes.
Conclusion:
The adoption of OER and the principles of Open Pedagogy have not only facilitated my personal and academic growth but also subtly influenced my perspective on education. These approaches encourage a more connected, accessible, and flexible educational environment, where learners and educators alike can thrive.
Resources:
Hegarty, B. (2015). Attributes of Open Pedagogy: A Model for Using Open Educational Resources. Educational Technology, 55(4), 3–13. http://www.jstor.org/stable/44430383
https://connectedlearningpathways.ca/category/edci-339-a01-module-4/
Blog URL: https://katenelsonstudies.opened.ca/blog-post-4-embracing-open-pedagogy/
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