Just completed a paper outlining a new model for exploring openness in education. This model is developed by and for Open Learning at Thompson Rivers University, and the paper is co-written with Judith Murray, VP of the Open Learning division.
Here’s the abstract:
“The mission of Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Open Learning (OL) is understood in terms of the interrelation of three entities: the student, the faculty member and the curriculum content. Where they interconnect—with a TRU-OL student working with TRU-OL courseware, being supported by a TRU-OL faculty member—is where learning, assessment and ultimately, credentialing take place. These three elements can be interrelated as points in a triangle, with assessment and credentialing in the centre. However, given the “open” content and services envisioned by the OER (Open Educational Resource) university and other initiatives, TRU-OL is currently exploring the results of defining these three elements differently. Instead of designating TRU-OL students, TRU-OL teachers and TRU-OL contents, specifically, these elements can serve as placeholders for any students, any instructional personnel or supports, and any open content. These can, in theory, all be shared, opened and disaggregated among various institutions, while assessment and credentialing remain as the principal service offered locally. The purpose of this paper is to explain this model in the context of the “open educational” movement, to describe its various permutations, and to consider the questions and objections that may arise in relation to it. It is thus intended to inform and invite discussion concerning a new set of “open” educational possibilities.”
What I miss in your model is any reference to context. Your model seems to be based on cognitivist or constructivist theories. In my view current technologies and the Web make that this age-old triangle between learner, teacher and content is no longer valid. The context in which the learning and teaching take place has become more and more important in the learning process. The learning environment, the technology and the online ‘knowledgeable others’ extend more and more influence on the learning process. Perhaps I feel more comfortable with social constructivist and connectivist perspectives on learning.
Rita Kop