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Dr Clare Brooks
Through this course you will start to critically examine your own ideas about education, teaching and learning. The critique will be developed through engagement with theories and ideas developed through educational research. You will be encouraged to use these ideas to challenge or support your own ideas about education.
Read more
Through this course you will start to critically examine your own ideas about education, teaching and learning. The critique will be developed through engagement with theories and ideas developed through educational research. You will be encouraged to use these ideas to challenge or support your own ideas about education.
Read more
Through this course you will start to critically examine your own ideas about education, teaching and learning. The critique will be developed through engagement with theories and ideas developed through educational research. You will be encouraged to use these ideas to challenge or support your own ideas about education.
Each week we will focus on one key question, using video lectures, key readings and challenges to explore some commonplace notions about education. With the guidance of the course team, you will be asked to use these ideas to critically reflect on your own understandings and experience. By the end of the course, you will have developed a personal response to the main question: what is your preferred future for education?
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/owd8kl/what
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What's inside
Syllabus
How do we learn?
This week we focus on the important question of "how do we learn?". One of our aims this week is to demonstrate the learning approach of this course as well as to get you to think about how you have learnt in the past, and to question some of your own assumptions about learning.
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Syllabus
How do we learn?
This week we focus on the important question of "how do we learn?". One of our aims this week is to demonstrate the learning approach of this course as well as to get you to think about how you have learnt in the past, and to question some of your own assumptions about learning.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Develops learners' critical thinking and analytical skills, which are essential for success in higher education and professional life
Suitable for learners with a background in education or those interested in exploring educational theory and practice
Taught by Dr. Clare Brooks, a leading expert in the field of education
Provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts in education, including learning theories, teaching methods, and assessment strategies
Encourages learners to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs about education
Requires learners to engage with diverse perspectives and consider multiple viewpoints
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Reviews summary
Critically examine future of education
According to learners, this course offers a strong theoretical foundation in educational research, encouraging students to critically examine their own ideas about teaching and learning. Many found the content thought-provoking and engaging, particularly the video lectures and readings that challenge commonplace notions. While the course requires significant reflective effort and may be perceived as highly academic by some, students report gaining valuable insights applicable to both professional practice and personal understanding. The course successfully guides learners toward developing their own perspectives on the future of education.
Experience varies with discussion quality.
"Forum discussions were sometimes insightful, sometimes less so."
"The quality of the peer interaction depended heavily on the week's participants."
"I found engaging with others' perspectives added a lot to my learning."
"Sometimes the volume of forum posts made it hard to keep up."
Demands time, significant reflection needed.
"Be prepared to dedicate significant time to reflection and engagement."
"This isn't a passive course; you need to actively think and process the material."
"The workload felt appropriate for a course of this depth."
"It required effort, but the rewards in terms of insight were worth it."
Lectures and readings are thought-provoking.
"The video lectures were engaging and easy to follow, despite the complex topics."
"I found the selected readings really interesting and relevant."
"The content, especially the challenges, sparked a lot of personal reflection."
"Every week introduced fascinating new ideas that kept me hooked."
Useful for professional/personal context.
"I can see how these ideas apply directly to my work as an educator."
"Provided a great framework for thinking about education policy and practice."
"Helped me clarify my own vision for the future of the school system."
"The course content feels very relevant to current global discussions on education."
Provides a good foundation in theory.
"The readings and lectures offered a solid introduction to key educational theories."
"I gained a much better understanding of the theoretical underpinnings of education."
"The course is heavily based in academic research, which I found beneficial."
"It provided the academic framework I needed to understand current debates."
Challenges assumptions, encourages introspection.
"This course truly made me challenge my fundamental assumptions about education."
"I appreciated how the material prompted deep introspection on my teaching practices."
"It forced me to think critically about 'how' and 'why' we educate the way we do."
"The focus on challenging your own ideas was incredibly valuable for my growth."
May be too theoretical for some learners.
"While valuable, the course was definitely on the more academic side."
"Someone looking for purely practical teaching tips might find this less suitable."
"It focuses more on the 'why' and 'what' of education's future than the 'how' in a classroom."
"The theoretical depth was great for me, but perhaps dense for a complete beginner."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in What future for education? with these
activities:
Review concepts of learning and education
Show steps
Review foundational knowledge of key concepts and theories in education and learning to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
-
Review key concepts of learning, such as schemas, cognitive load, and metacognition.
-
Explore different theories of learning, including behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning.
-
Consider the implications of these theories for teaching and learning practices.
Reflective Journaling
Show steps
Foster critical thinking and improve your understanding of the course material by engaging in regular reflective journaling.
Browse courses on
Reflection
Show steps
-
Identify a topic or question to reflect on.
-
Write down your thoughts, ideas, and feelings about the topic.
-
Review your reflections and make connections to the course material.
Critique of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck
Show steps
Expand your understanding of how mindset affects learning and success.
View
Mindset - Updated Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book.
-
Summarize the key ideas.
-
Analyze the implications for education.
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Review foundational educational theories
Show steps
Review foundational educational theories to strengthen your understanding of the course concepts.
Browse courses on
Educational Theory
Show steps
-
Read key texts on educational theories
-
Summarize the main principles and theories
-
Discuss the theories with peers or instructors
Explore Different Learning Techniques
Show steps
Improve your learning outcomes by exploring a variety of learning techniques and strategies.
Browse courses on
Learning
Show steps
-
Review the different learning techniques and styles.
-
Identify your preferred learning style.
-
Experiment with different learning strategies.
Explore resources on educational research
Show steps
Become familiar with resources and databases for educational research to support critical analysis throughout the course.
Show steps
-
Identify relevant databases for educational research, such as ERIC and JSTOR.
-
Learn how to search and access research articles using appropriate keywords.
-
Review guidelines for evaluating the credibility and reliability of research findings.
Engage in peer-led discussions
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the course concepts through discussions with your peers.
Show steps
-
Form or join a peer study group
-
Select topics for discussion
-
Facilitate and participate in discussions
Learning Stations
Show steps
Practice the theories and ideas through engagement with education research by using learning stations.
Browse courses on
Education
Show steps
-
Read the provided materials on the chosen learning station topic.
-
Engage in the hands-on activities at the station.
-
Discuss your findings and ideas with other students.
Critically analyze educational case studies
Show steps
Enhance your critical thinking skills by analyzing educational case studies and identifying key issues and solutions.
Show steps
-
Read and analyze educational case studies
-
Identify the key issues and challenges in the case
-
Develop and evaluate potential solutions
-
Present your analysis and solutions to peers or instructors
Apply critical thinking skills to educational scenarios
Show steps
Develop critical thinking skills by examining real-world educational situations and applying course concepts.
Show steps
-
Analyze case studies or scenarios that present educational challenges.
-
Identify the key issues and factors involved in the situation.
-
Apply relevant theories and concepts from the course to develop potential solutions.
Design a Lesson Plan
Show steps
Develop your skills in lesson planning by creating a lesson plan that incorporates the theories and ideas explored in the course.
Browse courses on
Lesson Planning
Show steps
-
Identify the learning objectives.
-
Choose appropriate teaching methods and activities.
-
Develop assessment strategies.
-
Reflect on the lesson plan and make revisions.
Explore innovative teaching methods and technologies
Show steps
Stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and technologies to enhance your teaching practice.
Show steps
-
Research and identify innovative teaching methods and technologies
-
Follow online tutorials or webinars on implementing these methods
-
Incorporate these methods into your teaching plans
Design and implement a lesson plan
Show steps
Enhance your teaching skills by designing and implementing a lesson plan for an educational setting.
Show steps
-
Identify the learning objectives for the lesson
-
Select and prepare appropriate content and materials
-
Implement the lesson plan in a real-world educational setting
-
Reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson and make adjustments as needed
Teaching Observation and Feedback
Show steps
Enhance your teaching skills by observing and providing feedback to a peer.
Browse courses on
Teaching
Show steps
-
Observe a peer teaching a lesson.
-
Provide feedback on the lesson.
-
Reflect on the observation and feedback experience.
Develop a personal philosophy of education
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of the course concepts by developing your own educational philosophy.
Show steps
-
Reflect on your educational experiences and beliefs
-
Research different educational philosophies
-
Write a statement outlining your personal educational philosophy
Tutoring or Mentoring in Education
Show steps
Gain practical experience and deepen your understanding of education by volunteering as a tutor or mentor.
Browse courses on
Education
Show steps
-
Find a tutoring or mentoring opportunity.
-
Prepare for your sessions.
-
Meet with your tutee or mentee regularly.
-
Reflect on your experience and make adjustments as needed.
Create a Course Portfolio
Show steps
Showcase your learning and progress by compiling a portfolio of your work from the course.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
-
Collect your assignments, projects, and other course materials.
-
Organize and review your materials.
-
Select the best pieces to include in your portfolio.
-
Create a presentation or other format to showcase your portfolio.
Review concepts of learning and education
Show steps
Review foundational knowledge of key concepts and theories in education and learning to prepare for the course.
Browse courses on
Learning Theories
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review key concepts of learning, such as schemas, cognitive load, and metacognition.
- Explore different theories of learning, including behaviorism, cognitivism, constructivism, and social learning.
- Consider the implications of these theories for teaching and learning practices.
Reflective Journaling
Show steps
Foster critical thinking and improve your understanding of the course material by engaging in regular reflective journaling.
Browse courses on
Reflection
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a topic or question to reflect on.
- Write down your thoughts, ideas, and feelings about the topic.
- Review your reflections and make connections to the course material.
Critique of Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck
Show steps
Expand your understanding of how mindset affects learning and success.
View
Mindset - Updated Edition
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book.
- Summarize the key ideas.
- Analyze the implications for education.
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Review foundational educational theories
Show steps
Review foundational educational theories to strengthen your understanding of the course concepts.
Browse courses on
Educational Theory
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read key texts on educational theories
- Summarize the main principles and theories
- Discuss the theories with peers or instructors
Explore Different Learning Techniques
Show steps
Improve your learning outcomes by exploring a variety of learning techniques and strategies.
Browse courses on
Learning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the different learning techniques and styles.
- Identify your preferred learning style.
- Experiment with different learning strategies.
Explore resources on educational research
Show steps
Become familiar with resources and databases for educational research to support critical analysis throughout the course.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant databases for educational research, such as ERIC and JSTOR.
- Learn how to search and access research articles using appropriate keywords.
- Review guidelines for evaluating the credibility and reliability of research findings.
Engage in peer-led discussions
Show steps
Deepen your understanding of the course concepts through discussions with your peers.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Form or join a peer study group
- Select topics for discussion
- Facilitate and participate in discussions
Learning Stations
Show steps
Practice the theories and ideas through engagement with education research by using learning stations.
Browse courses on
Education
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the provided materials on the chosen learning station topic.
- Engage in the hands-on activities at the station.
- Discuss your findings and ideas with other students.
Critically analyze educational case studies
Show steps
Enhance your critical thinking skills by analyzing educational case studies and identifying key issues and solutions.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read and analyze educational case studies
- Identify the key issues and challenges in the case
- Develop and evaluate potential solutions
- Present your analysis and solutions to peers or instructors
Apply critical thinking skills to educational scenarios
Show steps
Develop critical thinking skills by examining real-world educational situations and applying course concepts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Analyze case studies or scenarios that present educational challenges.
- Identify the key issues and factors involved in the situation.
- Apply relevant theories and concepts from the course to develop potential solutions.
Design a Lesson Plan
Show steps
Develop your skills in lesson planning by creating a lesson plan that incorporates the theories and ideas explored in the course.
Browse courses on
Lesson Planning
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the learning objectives.
- Choose appropriate teaching methods and activities.
- Develop assessment strategies.
- Reflect on the lesson plan and make revisions.
Explore innovative teaching methods and technologies
Show steps
Stay up-to-date with the latest teaching methods and technologies to enhance your teaching practice.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify innovative teaching methods and technologies
- Follow online tutorials or webinars on implementing these methods
- Incorporate these methods into your teaching plans
Design and implement a lesson plan
Show steps
Enhance your teaching skills by designing and implementing a lesson plan for an educational setting.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the learning objectives for the lesson
- Select and prepare appropriate content and materials
- Implement the lesson plan in a real-world educational setting
- Reflect on the effectiveness of the lesson and make adjustments as needed
Teaching Observation and Feedback
Show steps
Enhance your teaching skills by observing and providing feedback to a peer.
Browse courses on
Teaching
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Observe a peer teaching a lesson.
- Provide feedback on the lesson.
- Reflect on the observation and feedback experience.
Develop a personal philosophy of education
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of the course concepts by developing your own educational philosophy.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Reflect on your educational experiences and beliefs
- Research different educational philosophies
- Write a statement outlining your personal educational philosophy
Tutoring or Mentoring in Education
Show steps
Gain practical experience and deepen your understanding of education by volunteering as a tutor or mentor.
Browse courses on
Education
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a tutoring or mentoring opportunity.
- Prepare for your sessions.
- Meet with your tutee or mentee regularly.
- Reflect on your experience and make adjustments as needed.
Create a Course Portfolio
Show steps
Showcase your learning and progress by compiling a portfolio of your work from the course.
Browse courses on
Portfolio
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Collect your assignments, projects, and other course materials.
- Organize and review your materials.
- Select the best pieces to include in your portfolio.
- Create a presentation or other format to showcase your portfolio.
Career center
Learners who complete What future for education? will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Teacher
Teacher
As a Teacher, you will play a vital role in teaching and educating students. As part of your duties, you will develop and implement lesson plans that help students understand complex concepts. What future for education? will provide you with the tools you need to lead a classroom. As an educator, this course can help you better meet the needs of your students, and critically reflect on the best teaching practices.
Educational Consultant
Educational Consultant
As an Educational Consultant, you will be tasked with advising institutions and individuals on educational best-practices and standards. You will help clients assess their needs and implement solutions that improve learning outcomes. By taking What future for education?, you will gain insights into emerging trends and best practices in education. This knowledge can help you better advise clients and help them achieve their educational goals.
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designer
Instructional Designers create and develop lesson plans and training materials for educational institutions and corporations. You may work on projects ranging from e-learning modules to classroom-based instruction. What future for education? can provide you with insights into the latest learning theories and instructional design best practices. This knowledge can help you create more effective and engaging learning experiences.
Curriculum Developer
Curriculum Developer
As a Curriculum Developer, you will be responsible for designing and developing educational programs and materials. You will work with teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders to create curricula that meet the needs of students and align with educational standards. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of curriculum design principles and best practices. This knowledge can help you develop more effective and engaging curricula.
Education Policy Analyst
Education Policy Analyst
Education Policy Analysts research, analyze, and evaluate education policies and programs. They make recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders on how to improve the quality of education. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of education policy and the factors that influence it. This knowledge can help you make more informed recommendations and advocate for policies that improve educational outcomes.
Education Researcher
Education Researcher
Education Researchers conduct research on various aspects of education, including teaching and learning, curriculum development, and educational policy. They use their findings to inform educational practice and policy. What future for education? will introduce you to the principles of educational research and will provide you with the skills you need to conduct your own research studies.
Educational Administrator
Educational Administrator
Educational Administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of schools and other educational institutions. They work with teachers, staff, parents, and the community to create a positive learning environment for students. What future for education? can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing educational administrators today. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and lead your school or institution to success.
School Counselor
School Counselor
School Counselors provide academic, career, and personal counseling to students. They help students overcome challenges, make informed decisions, and achieve their goals. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of the role of school counselors and the skills you need to be successful in this field.
Teacher Assistant
Teacher Assistant
Teacher Assistants support teachers in the classroom by providing instructional support to students. They may also help with administrative tasks, such as grading papers and preparing materials. What future for education? can provide you with a solid foundation in teaching and learning principles. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Teacher Assistant and support the learning of all students.
Literacy Coach
Literacy Coach
Literacy Coaches work with teachers and students to improve literacy skills. They provide professional development to teachers and help them implement effective literacy instruction in their classrooms. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of literacy development and the best practices for literacy instruction. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Literacy Coach and help students become successful readers and writers.
Instructional Technology Specialist
Instructional Technology Specialist
Instructional Technology Specialists help teachers integrate technology into the classroom. They provide professional development to teachers and help them use technology to improve student learning. What future for education? can provide you with a solid understanding of educational technology and the best practices for using technology in the classroom. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Instructional Technology Specialist and help teachers use technology to improve student learning.
Education Nonprofit Manager
Education Nonprofit Manager
Education Nonprofit Managers lead and manage nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to improving education. They work with donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders to raise funds and develop programs that support educational initiatives. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing education nonprofits. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Education Nonprofit Manager and lead your organization to success.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Trainers design and deliver training programs for employees in corporate settings. They work with businesses to identify training needs and develop programs that meet those needs. What future for education? can provide you with a solid foundation in instructional design and the best practices for adult learning. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Corporate Trainer and help businesses develop their employees.
Education Writer
Education Writer
Education Writers write about education-related topics for a variety of audiences. They may write for newspapers, magazines, websites, or other publications. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of the current state of education and the challenges and opportunities facing the field. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Education Writer and produce informative and engaging content that informs and inspires readers.
Education Policy Advocate
Education Policy Advocate
Education Policy Advocates work to influence education policy and improve educational outcomes for all students. They work with policymakers, educators, and other stakeholders to advocate for policies that support student learning and equity. What future for education? can provide you with a deep understanding of education policy and the factors that influence it. This knowledge can help you be a more effective Education Policy Advocate and advocate for policies that improve educational outcomes for all students.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/owd8kl/what
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
What future for education?.
Save
Explores the future of education, arguing that the traditional model of education is no longer adequate for the 21st century. Prensky discusses the need for a new model of education that is more personalized, learner-centered, and focused on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Explores the nature of intelligence and how it is shaped by culture and environment. Nisbett argues that intelligence is not fixed, but rather can be developed through education and experience. This book valuable resource for those interested in understanding the role of intelligence in learning.
Explores the characteristics of effective teachers and how they can be developed. Willingham discusses the importance of subject-matter knowledge, pedagogical skills, and classroom management skills. This book valuable resource for those interested in improving their teaching skills.
Save
Makes the case for public education, arguing that it is essential for a democratic society. Kirp discusses the benefits of public education for students, families, and communities.
Explores the impact of the互联网on our brains and how it is changing the way we think, read, and learn. Carr argues that the互联网is making us more superficial and less able to focus and concentrate.
Explores the power of mindset and how it can influence our achievement. Dweck argues that people with a fixed mindset believe that their intelligence is fixed, while people with a growth mindset believe that their intelligence can be developed. This book valuable resource for those interested in developing a growth mindset.
His book provides practical strategies for effective learning. Oakley and Sejnowski discuss the importance of spaced repetition, retrieval practice, and metacognition. valuable resource for those interested in improving their learning skills.
Provides a framework for differentiated instruction.
Save
Provides a framework for effective teaching.
Save
Provides a framework for effective school leadership.
Provides a framework for effective classroom management.
Provides a framework for effective classroom management.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/owd8kl/what
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Effort
6-8 hours/week
Via
Coursera
Institutions
University of London
UCL Institute of Education
Instructor
Dr Clare Brooks
Language
English
Transcripts
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