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1 – 10 of over 67000
Article
Publication date: 25 September 2023

Alma Harris, Michelle Jones, Cecilia Azorín, Alex Southern, Jeremy Griffiths and Ingileif Ástvaldsdóttir

This article draws upon evidence from a contemporary study of all-through schools (ATS) in three countries. ATS combine at least two stages of a child's education in a single…

Abstract

Purpose

This article draws upon evidence from a contemporary study of all-through schools (ATS) in three countries. ATS combine at least two stages of a child's education in a single establishment. Many admit children aged 3–19. Most children join the school at nursery or kindergarten level and continue there for their entire education before moving on to further or higher education. ATS are also called all-age, in some contexts, because they bring children of all ages together into the same school environment. Models of ATS vary internationally; hence, there is not one definition of an ATS. This article takes a comparative look at ATS in Iceland, Spain and Wales. The purpose of this article is to explore innovative pedagogies in ATS and to explore how far deeper learning occurs because of the integrated and inclusive model of schooling. The study focused on pedagogical practices in ATS and examined how far these innovative practices are considered by teachers to foster deeper learning outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The article draws upon a three-year comparative research project that explored pedagogy, leadership and well-being in ATS. The article investigates pedagogy with a cross-cutting focus on enquiry and deeper learning from the perspective of leaders and teachers. Using focus groups and lesson observations, a qualitative case-study approach was utilised to gather evidence about the teaching and learning processes adopted in ATS. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with school leaders. The analytical approach adopted was one of constant comparison with the prime aim of eliciting common themes across the data sets. In relation to the pedagogy theme and an exploration of pedagogical innovation, research questions included (1) How far do ATS foster innovative pedagogies?, (2) What are the leadership conditions that support innovative pedagogies? and (3) To what extent do innovative pedagogies promote deeper learning?

Findings

Within and across the three education systems under investigation, the study found that all-through schooling engages students in a positive learning environment and provides innovative pedagogical processes associated with deeper learning. The article provides evidence about how deeper learning functions in ATS from different parts of the world and reflects on the way deeper learning is promoted by leaders and teachers, resulting in deeper learning for students. The evidence from this study reinforces that opportunities for pedagogical innovation and deeper learning within ATS occur because of flatter structures, more fluidity between different phases of learning and greater cross-over of teacher expertise. The study also highlights how leadership is a critical factor in creating the conditions for collective professional practices that foster pedagogical innovations to secure deeper learning. Findings suggest that leading for deeper learning is fundamentally concerned with creating the conditions for innovative learning environments that are equitable, inclusive, diverse and cross age ranges.

Originality/value

Contemporary empirical studies of the deeper learning environments within ATS remain relatively rare; hence, this study provides new comparative and contemporary evidence that illuminates the nature of the pedagogical innovation and the leadership practices that support pedagogical innovation in these schools. It also highlights how professional collaboration and cross-phase working are at the heart of innovative pedagogies that support deeper learning. The study outlined in this article provides critical, new insights about pedagogical innovation and deeper learning within ATS settings.

Details

Journal of Educational Administration, vol. 62 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0957-8234

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 June 2021

Kelum Jayasinghe

This study aims to address the possibility of integrating some elements of the “radical constructivist” approach to management accounting teaching. It answers the following two…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to address the possibility of integrating some elements of the “radical constructivist” approach to management accounting teaching. It answers the following two questions: to what extent should management accounting educators construct a “radical constructivist” foundation to guide active learning? Then, in which ways can management accounting educators use qualitative methods to facilitate “radical constructivist” education?

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a teaching cycle that implements innovative learning elements, e.g. learning from ordinary people, designed following the principles of “radical constructivism”, to engage students with “externalities” at the centre of their knowledge construction. It adopts an ethnographic approach comprising interviews and participant observation for the data collection, followed by the application of qualitative content and narrative analysis of the data.

Findings

The study findings and reflections illustrate that the majority of students respond positively to radical constructivist learning if the educators can develop an innovative problem-solving and authentic environment that is close to their real lives. The radical constructivist teaching cycle discussed in this study has challenged the mindsets of the management accounting students as it altered the traditional objectivist academic learning approaches that students were familiar with. Its use of qualitative methods facilitated active learning. Student feedback was sought as part of the qualitative design, which provided a constructive mechanism for the students and educators to learn and unlearn from their mistakes. This process enriched the understanding of learners (students) and educators of successful engagement in radical constructivist management accounting education and provides a base upon which to design future teaching cycles.

Originality/value

The paper provides proof of the ability of accounting educators, as change agents, to apply radical constructivist epistemology combined with multiple qualitative research methods by creating new constructive learning structures and cultures associated with innovative deep-learning tasks in management accounting education.

Details

Qualitative Research in Accounting & Management, vol. 18 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1176-6093

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 28 June 2022

Ulla Saastamoinen, Lasse Eronen, Antti Juvonen and Pasi Vahimaa

Schools have a significant role in ensuring children's wellbeing as children spend a lot of time at school. Students need to have an active role in their learning and an…

1731

Abstract

Purpose

Schools have a significant role in ensuring children's wellbeing as children spend a lot of time at school. Students need to have an active role in their learning and an opportunity to participate in issues concerning wellbeing and studying. This research examines students' wellbeing in an innovative learning environment. The classroom is built with professionals, teachers and students (aged 9). The authors call it Learning Ground.

Design/methodology/approach

Students' wellbeing was measured with smart device application for a six-week period. Students answered the questionnaire with a Likert scale of five (very poor – excellent) responses. Two weeks during the six weeks research period, students were able to use digital study aids, EEG-biosensor headsets, to observe the effectiveness of their learning, defined by NeurSky app. The EEG-biosensors enabled students to use a tool to recognise their own learning factors during the lessons. The effectiveness was available to students via tablets all the time.

Findings

The students at the Learning Ground are satisfied with wellbeing and the environment support for students' wellbeing experience is notable. They have “good vibes” before and after the school day. When wearing EEG-headsets “study aids”, which enabled them to observe their learning via tablets at lessons, the wellbeing experience in the mornings even increased.

Originality/value

Schools need to be visionaries concerning 21st century learning and children's wellbeing. Building flexible learning environments and bringing innovative technologies into schools to provide active support for students will enable 21st century learning. Wellbeing of children should become first when developing the future schools.

Details

Journal of Research in Innovative Teaching & Learning, vol. 16 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2397-7604

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 November 2010

Hui‐Chun Chu, Gwo‐Jen Hwang and Judy C.R. Tseng

This paper aims to propose an innovative approach to assist teachers in using electronic libraries to develop learning activities for context‐aware ubiquitous learning, in which…

1407

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an innovative approach to assist teachers in using electronic libraries to develop learning activities for context‐aware ubiquitous learning, in which the learning system can detect students' behaviors and guide them to learn in the real world with personalized support from the digital world.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic library with context‐awareness metadata for supporting learning activities conducted in real‐world environments is presented. Furthermore, a systematic procedure for guiding teachers in employing the electronic library to develop learning activities is proposed based on an innovative approach.

Findings

From a practical application conducted on an elementary school, it is found that, with this innovative approach, electronic libraries not only have the potential in supporting traditional in‐class or online learning activities, but also can assist teachers and digital content workers in developing high quality learning activities and related digital learning materials to support outdoor learning.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this paper imply that, to promote the utilization rate of electronic libraries for more specified purposes, more features of the application domains need to be considered while designing the database schemas of the electronic libraries.

Practical implications

From the feedback of teachers and digital content workers, it is found electronic libraries have high potential for supporting outdoor learning activities for “Science” and “Social science” courses with proper database schema design and the provision of user guidance.

Originality/value

An electronic library for supporting context‐aware ubiquitous‐learning is presented and an innovative approach for guiding teachers to design learning activities is proposed.

Details

The Electronic Library, vol. 28 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0264-0473

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 20 November 2023

Ana Luísa Rodrigues

Toward the construction of a new paradigm in teacher education in a globalized and digitalized society where it is intended to value knowledge and teacher professional development…

Abstract

Toward the construction of a new paradigm in teacher education in a globalized and digitalized society where it is intended to value knowledge and teacher professional development sustained by collaboration and cooperation, training policies and models based on technology-enhanced active learning will be required. This chapter aims to analyze the dimensions that can affect these training models within a new educational paradigm, at the level of professional development and increase of technological skills, collaborative processes for the creation of communities of practice, and promotion of active learning that contribute to innovative hybrid environments and transformative learning. In the Covid-19 post-pandemic, it is crucial to study and mobilize the experiences developed in the educational field exploring how these can be harnessed to build this new educational paradigm. This work aims to contribute with a reasoned reflection and insights concerning learning models and methodologies in teacher education that contribute to transformative active learning. Focusing on the link between preservice and in-service teacher education, the interrelation among teacher education and evaluation, and the construction of innovative technology-enhanced learning environments, for instance through the active training model.

Article
Publication date: 2 February 2015

– To propose a framework for sustainable e-learning to guide development of an innovative learning environment in the higher education sector, particularly in Malaysia.

1222

Abstract

Purpose

To propose a framework for sustainable e-learning to guide development of an innovative learning environment in the higher education sector, particularly in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Presents a literature review based on searching four well-known online databases to identify articles, books and conference proceedings that discuss e-learning and sustainable development.

Findings

Educational sustainability can mean two things: sustainability of education and education for sustainability. Malaysia – an export-led economy driven by industrial and technological progress – has ambitious plans for further economic development as far ahead as 2020. The government aims to strengthen creativity and innovation by improving the education system. Of course, economic plans have resource implications, and one of the most promising ways of delivering an innovative learning environment is through e-learning. This raises the question of how economic and educational development can be sustained, and the role of e-learning in achieving and maintaining sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

Focuses the literature review on academic publications.

Practical implications

Argues that sustainable e-learning can help the higher education sector to boost the supply of innovative and creative graduates and at the same time, to lower costs through more efficient use of resources.

Social implications

Explains that the sustainable approach to e-learning can increase student motivation, engagement with and control over their learning. It achieves this through the use of developing Web technologies that give them personalized access to a broad range of information resources.

Originality/value

Provides insights into the characteristics of sustainable e-learning and identifies gaps in the existing research. Integrates factors relevant to e-learning, technology and sustainable development into a single framework for sustainable e-learning.

Details

Development and Learning in Organizations, vol. 29 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7282

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 30 November 2018

Linda Daniela, Raimonds Strods, Zanda Rubene and Sandra Kalniņa

Even though it has already been 25 years since the collapse of the Soviet Union and the regaining of independence for the Republic of Latvia, teacher education faces various and…

Abstract

Even though it has already been 25 years since the collapse of the Soviet Union and the regaining of independence for the Republic of Latvia, teacher education faces various and specific problems brought forth by the experience behind the ‘iron curtain’, spanning five decades. Ever since regaining its independence, Latvia has implemented ambitious education reforms. A new education reform has been launched in Latvia, which start to implement the competency approach in general education by 2018. A vital aspect of this reform is teacher education. In preparing teachers, universities have an extra task – to promote competency of the future teachers to implement the competency approach in schools, in a student-centred study process. The organisation process must change during the university study process in order to accommodate that the future teachers acquire actual competencies by using modern technologies and modern learning strategies, thus later promoting active involvement of students in the construction of their competencies.

This study carried out a survey of 170 students of the teacher education programme at the University of Latvia and revealed problem areas that should be changed in the teacher education process to ensure that the future teachers are able to implement the competency approach in schools. IBM SPSS Statistics 22 was used to analyse data. The research objective was to learn student-teachers’ ability to implement competency approach in their pedagogical work.

Details

The Future of Innovation and Technology in Education: Policies and Practices for Teaching and Learning Excellence
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-78756-555-5

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 2 August 2022

Annelies Raes, Marieke Pieters and Celine Vens

This chapter reports on the design-based research study aimed at the re- and codesign of the third-year course “Introduction to Biostatistics,” part of the Bachelor program in

Abstract

This chapter reports on the design-based research study aimed at the re- and codesign of the third-year course “Introduction to Biostatistics,” part of the Bachelor program in Medicine. The authors aimed to make teaching more interactive, student-based and future-proof by empirically testing theoretical assumptions during iterative studies, including both quantitative and qualitative results from the perspective of the students and the teacher. The authors’ conclusion is that teacher–researcher collaboration can be an effective approach for professional development and improving innovative practices. At the same time, it allows to get a better theoretical understanding of effective teaching and learning practices. The authors hope that this chapter can inspire others to transform toward a progressive institution and looking for concrete innovative classroom practices in the context of innovative learning spaces.

Article
Publication date: 9 May 2018

Partha Priya Datta

This paper aims to explore the implementation of an innovation in an executive education programme in the context of the Indian manufacturing industry. This paper presents an…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the implementation of an innovation in an executive education programme in the context of the Indian manufacturing industry. This paper presents an understanding of a conceptual framework for delivering a unique manufacturing leadership programme, explaining the different linkages between government, industry and academia for changing the mindset of participants and growth of a nation by developing highly skilful employees to lead India’s manufacturing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports a single case study of an innovative manufacturing leadership development programme. Primary data were obtained from focus group studies and interviews. Documentary evidence in the form of reports, student work, course curriculum and meeting minutes was studied. The individual participants in the programme are used as units of analysis to explore systems of innovation, at individual levels. The analysis was carried out by applying theoretical models to explain the design, delivery and development of the programme over the years.

Findings

The findings from this research are an exploration of factors for sustaining the value of a system of innovation with special focus on a subsystem of knowledge creation and competence building. Institutional change is found to be a key input to the innovation process in terms of a collaborative mindset between three different academic institutes well known in different areas of expertise. Building an innovative coordination mechanism and curriculum combining academics with practical learning helped in changing the mindset of the students and faculty of the programme. This is linked to the development of country through leadership development by mindset change in mentors and students. The findings show that the studied programme has grown in terms of creating demand (in the form of increased applicants), guaranteeing 100 per cent placement with an average 50 per cent increase in salary and accelerated career in terms of role in the organisation. This was possible through continuous improvement practices for making local changes to the programme from time to time and building a community of practice in collaboration with industry.

Originality/value

The value of this research lies in highlighting the importance of international cooperation in speeding up the process of transferring management and technological knowledge from academia to industry. The framework developed for implementing a system of learning for creating a national system of innovation in manufacturing can be generalised to develop more such programmes in emerging nations for addressing skill challenges to lead future innovative projects.

Details

International Journal of Innovation Science, vol. 10 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1757-2223

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 July 2009

Ulf Daniel Ehlers

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the changes taking place when learning moves from a transmissive learning model to a collaborative and reflective learning model and…

3945

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the changes taking place when learning moves from a transmissive learning model to a collaborative and reflective learning model and proposes consequences for quality development.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper summarises relevant research in the field of e‐learning to outline the differences between e‐learning 1.0 and e‐learning 2.0 and amalgamates it with a series of previously published works. The characteristics of quality development are analyses in a next step and suitable methodologies for developing quality for e‐learning 2.0 environments are selected, proposed and explained.

Findings

Even though the question of quality is controversially discussed already when e‐learning 1.0 appeared on the market, e‐learning 2.0 creates even more insecurity. This paper aims at answering the following questions: what constitutes the new, innovative element, which is described by Web 2.0 and e‐learning 2.0? Does this development have consequences for how it assures, manage and develop quality in e‐learning? In three steps, it is described what e‐learning 2.0 constitutes, which basic elements of Web 2.0 it builds on, and what has changed. In a second, step the consequences this implies for quality development in e‐learning are discussed. Third, a number of methods as examples and practical advice on how to further advance quality development are described.

Originality/value

The original value of the paper is to outline the changes which have to be taken into account in new and innovative learning environment which are build on Web 2.0 technologies and to draw consequences for quality development as well as suggest methodologies for educators and learners to improve quality of such learning environments.

Details

Quality Assurance in Education, vol. 17 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0968-4883

Keywords

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