A few emerging themes in my explorations of work-based learning as a
route to WP
In exploring widening participation further it
becomes clear that the BA LTR is unique in combination. Whilst many programmes
embrace some of the ingredients which BA LTR use, I have not come across the
same combination. Some emerging themes in my explorations of work-based learning
as a route to WP ;
* most of the WP
literature focuses on the expansion of traditional routes to HE.
* often work based learning is
negotiated between HEI & employer - HI does not tend to encourage
individuals but rather groups.
- so what of learner autonomy? what of those without pro-active
employers?
* e-learning is often used
as a supplement (after the spectacular decline of 100% online projects).
- It's effect on WP is then
often limited.
* e-learning has been
used to replace traditional access for learners (maintaining the possession of
access to the technical); rather than necessarily widening participation.
* Issues with online pedagogy (the
un-established, unknown) have left courses which are online with issues of
scalability and sustainablity.
*
action learning is often used but still lacks some credibility.
* Problem-based learning often
involves the definition of problems by HEI's and/or organisations, rather than
individuals.
BA LTR seems to reconcile
many of these issues by offering a generic, learner autonomous pathway which is
not afraid to use the virtual paradigm to reach the previously unreachable, it
embraces action learning but uses additional methods to strengthen the content
and structure of the course, the development of pedagogy has left a scalable and
sustainable pathway.
Posted: Sunday - October 22, 2006 at 08:48 AM
