Iliana Nikolova

Flexible learning and design of instruction

The paper deals with the problem of designing flexible learning and instruction. Flexibility is considered both from the learners and the designers perspective. The potential of telematics in the design, development and implementation of flexible and distance learning is discussed. A Method for flexible instructional modules development is presented which aims at assisting the educational designers in the development of flexible instructional modules, ie, modules, which are easily adaptable to different learners needs, allow learners choices and different delivery platforms, including distance delivery. Examples of Method applications and current development of a software system to facilitate the Methods implementation are reported.

Teacher development in ICT: Vision and implementation

The paper presents the philosophy and practices of the Department of Information Technologies and the Teacher Training Center at the Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics, University of Sofia, related to teacher development in Information and Communication Technologies. The conceptual framework for teacher development calls for an integrated approach to the problem: the various forms for teacher training and continuing support are combined with activities, aiming at influencing the system in which the teachers work. The approach embeds “teachers as change agents” paradigm and aims at creating sustainable links, both vertical (between the research and training units and teachers) and horizontal (among teachers themselves), finally building an informal professional society of researchers, trainers and teachers who communicate, collaborate and share. The teacher development processes are initiated in a university environment in which research, development and teaching are closely interrelated. This creates added-value opportunities and experiences for the participating teachers. The scope of activities includes workshops and seminars for teachers; strategy and curriculum development in ICT; educational software and learning materials development; carrying out educational and researches projects; building W W W support environment for teachers.

Distance Education in Schools: Perspectives and Realities

This chapter discusses the role of distance education in K-12 education. Distance education is used as a general term for teaching and learning when teachers and learners are separate in terms of space and time, in which information and communication technology (ICT) are used to facilitate the teaching and learning process. It is believed that because of developments in ICTs distance education can serve as a catalyst of a new global educational reform in schools aimed to break the monopoly of the print and paper based educational system. To realize such ongoing educational reform distance education should make use of virtual learning environments which do not put clear boundaries between physical and virtual worlds. A key factor for success of distance education is to design virtual learning environments which apply relevant instructional design strategies based on a current learning theory. Research on the effectiveness of distance education is discussed. The future of distance education is considered in the context of Web 2.0 schools.

Impact of Technology on Learning Paradigms and Teaching Practices

The panel will seek answers to various questions related to the impact of technology on learning by presenting examples of particular experiences and then extrapolating in order to arrive to common conclusions or identify and reason controversial opinions.