What is the key to unlocking meaning in learning?

In this testing-obsessed educational climate, how do we, as teachers, ensure that our students are encountering meaningful learning? How do we prepare them for life, and not just the tests they need to sit? Reading the chapter ‘What is Meaningful Learning?’ has shed some light on the key for success in this department; meaningful learning occurs when teachers provide tasks that are “active, constructive, intentional, authentic and cooperative” (Jonassen, et al., 2008).

One aspect of the reading that I found particularly challenging was that of the learning ‘intention’. Jonassen, et al., (2008) assert that technology is most effectively used when it is employed by learners to achieve their own goal. Generally, technology is manipulated for the teacher’s purpose; they will show a video to teach a particular topic, or use software to create a worksheet for students to fill in. This is not meaningful because students become the passive consumers of information, rather than the driving force behind their own learning.

This reading has changed some of my views; I now see that another difference between a good teacher and a great teacher is the way in which they adhere to the tenants of meaningful learning.

Reading Reference: Jonassen, D., et al. (2008). Meaningful learning with technology (3rd ed.). New Jersey: Pearson Education.

Thanks to flickr for Image: 'hanging on' 

http://www.flickr.com/photos/53611153@N00/1750378617