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Thoughts on providing HE...

2010, July 13 - 15:34 — PatParslow

(all self evident really, but as I had penned it in an email, I thought I would also share it with the world...!)

   Engineers, computer programmers and most professionals need to be problem solvers.  A good problem solver does not need to be spoon-fed their 'education'; they have the same skill sets as competent, self motivated, life long learners.  I believe we need to emphasise this more with first years at university, and make sure that the one thing we really teach is how to learn (unless we can somehow persuade the compulsory sector to do it...)

 

  I believe we need to include some basic education at the very beginning of our students experience.  Key skills which will help them throughout life, but possibly more importantly will enable them to learn the other (academic) topics they need for their qualifications.
 
  They need to know about time management, project management (even if only in terms of managing their own learning within each module), analytical skills, note taking skills, how to prioritise, how to build and maintain their own personal learning networks and environments, peer review and support, reflection, presentation skills and personal goal setting.
 
  A student versed in these skills only needs to have the learning goals for a module set out for them, and occasional pointers given.  Not only will they be cheaper to educate (as they will essentially be doing it themselves) but they will be formidable in the employment market, especially if they produce clear evidence of their skills.  
 
  We have the opportunity to 'do Higher Education properly'.
 

 

 

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