My class covers learning environments using ICT, but I also briefly explain the underlying theories. Since the students are mainly first-years and would not understand if I suddenly explained the connection between ICT and learning, I have them reflect on their past learning experiences to help them grasp the basics of these theories.
In particular, my lecture focuses on helping them realize the importance of metacognition and Self-Regulated Learning. Since these are also very important design points in ICT-based learning environments, I explain them in that context.
I have talked about theories related to metacognition and Self-Regulated Learning, as well as the merits, demerits, and risks of using social software in learning. In the final lecture of the first semester, a student said to me, “I’m free during summer vacation, so I want to do some reflection. I especially want to reflect on what we did in this class.” These are truly happy words to hear.
I had a drink with a former colleague from my time in the corporate world and we talked about many things. I hope that at least the students who took my class will, in a few years, be able to create opportunities for their own growth, think for themselves, and build their own paths. At the very least, I want them to be the kind of people who make others feel that potential in them. It would be great if they became interested in Educational Technology, but it is fine if they don’t. I hope that if they remember what we did in my class a few years from now, they will be a little happier than those around them. After all, I am teaching them things that will lead to that.
I am also grateful for the interest and words of encouragement I have received regarding my class on Twitter. I am very happy about that. As it is a liberal arts course, the number of students is small, but we are conducting it like a seminar. I am looking forward to seeing them in a few years.
Well, our university is entering a period where it will soon become a ghost town. There will be almost no students left.
About Metacognition and Self-Regulated Learning
Metacognition is a rather difficult topic, but although the two books below contain some technical terms, I think undergraduate students can understand them if they look things up while reading. They are written in an accessible way. They might also be useful for your own learning.
If you want to know more professionally or want to use them as references for your graduation thesis, I think the following three books are good. I would like you to consult the original works by Schunk and Zimmerman if possible. Translations inevitably involve the translator’s interpretation and liberal translation, so it is better to consult the original works to understand them.
I think the discussion on metacognition and Self-Regulated Learning is useful not only for students but also for those working in companies who are in charge of training young employees and subordinates. There are many things we do unconsciously, but when they are clearly stated in such theories, they become convincing, and it also makes you feel like continuing to do them.
