DEANZ 2010

DEANZ 2010 – Quality Connections – Boundless Possibilities: Through Open, Flexible and Distance Learning.

I’m biased because I played a minor role in the Organising Committee but I have to say this was one of the most enjoyable conferences I have been to in many a year. Te Papa was a great venue, and the conference (25-28 April 2010) was fairly fast-paced, well punctuated with some quality keynotes and plenaries and a rather amusing ‘Great Debate’. The personal highlight for me was the keynote by Professor Terry Anderson

Anderson, T. (2010) Three Generations of Distance Education Pedagogy [PowerPoint]. Retrieved May 2, 2010 from http://cider.athabascau.ca/CIDERSessions/sessionarchive/

In this presentation, Terry defines three pedagogical models that have defined distance education programming – behavioural/cognitive, constructivist and connectivist. He talks about the challenges and opportunities afforded by each model, with a focus on the emergent development of connectivism.

A fascinating review of developments in the field that illustrated clearly the ongoing tension between central institutional ‘control’ of enabling technologies and the ‘license and liberty’ that we increasingly hope students will exercise.

My own small contribution was as leader of the winning debate team ! Humble in victory as ever…..

Simon welcomes the win decision at the Great Debate
Humble in Victory: the win decision at the Great Debate

Author: Simon Paul Atkinson

30 years as an educational strategist, academic practitioner and developer, educational developer, educational technologist, and e-learning researcher. Simon is now an Educational Strategic Consultant. An experienced presenter and workshop facilitator. Previous roles include Head of Learning Design at the Open Polytechnic of New Zealand, Associate Dean for Teaching and Learning (BPP University), Academic Developer (London School of Economics), Director of Teaching and Learning (Massey University - College of Education), Head of Centre for Learning Development (University of Hull), Academic Developer (Open University UK)

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