Academic Challenge or Collaborative Opportunity? Lay-Learning and Development Academic Challenge or Collaborative Opportunity? Presentation by Wendy Fowles-Sweet & Dr Maryam Atoofi 22nd March 2018

Definition Lay-learning Obtaining information and knowledge through non-structured sources, e.g. the internet, social networks, cultural norms, etc

The Challenges Ease of gaining knowledge Veracity of that knowledge Practitioners Teachers

HE: The Concerns Distance Learning – Lynda.com / LinkedIn Lay people gain general knowledge outside academia: everybody can be an “expert” Distance Learning – Lynda.com / LinkedIn Software Developers - Adobe Social Media – Google, Wikipedia Industry developed qualifications - Dyson

HE: The Concerns No longer the sole “bastions of knowledge”, or “knowledge factories” Other institutions can offer qualifications, directly focussed on required capabilities Relevance of qualifications to many learners in doubt Demographics – traditional approaches not longer suitable Life long learners Young learners

Broken Barriers Technology has broken down barriers such as: Age Race Geography Working Time Perception At what cost? Is Technology enslaving us instead of working for us? Value of humans What is education now?

The Advance of Technology Values don’t change – perspective develops Since 2000, changing approach to learning Use of Internet / Social Media Technology Enhanced Learning in Classrooms BUT Values don’t change – perspective develops

The Advance of Technology New applications of this knowledge New knowledge opportunities New applications of this knowledge Social Inclusion Reinforced learning / memory Assisted Leaving

The Changing Role of HEIs Theoretical Foundation for Decision Making Innovation and Originality Guided Study – enabling classroom and independent study Research-guided, academic learning style Social mobility and interaction Developing Alternative Learning Styles Facilitated Learning (not Teaching)

HE Opportunities Quality of thinking Taking control of thinking Evaluating and Reflecting Directed breadth and depth Behavourial Skills Directed Facilitated thinking skills Collaboration Connectivity Practice of Thinking Generic Learning Skills Interdisciplinary Development

Impact on the Individual Reflection: Human Values Collaboration Impact on the Individual Impact on Society

Reflection: Education Now Interdisciplinary Practitioners developed by facilitated learning Thinkers aided by technology