Free interactive learning object creation tool with a focus on creating scenario-based learning

" We investigate the ways in which digital technology is changing learning environments, social and civic institutions, and youth culture. We work to support the growth of the emerging digital media and learning field and community. We spread thought leadership and best practices for next generation learning and civics. How we do it Carry out an extensive agenda of original research Provide a gathering place for those interested in new models of learning Host a weekly webinar series  Produce blogs, websites, a report series, other publications Hold an annual conference Support emerging scholars by sponsoring workshops, working groups and a weeklong summer institute Partner with like-minded research organizations and individuals"

This paper addresses the competences needed in 21st century life especially in relation to civic participation, and the educational requirements to foster them in young people. New technologies are widely used by young people for informal social interaction, video game-playing and giving voice to their views. Incorporation of these practices into the classroom has been fairly slow, despite their manifest potential for promoting agency and civic engagement. The paper argues that this is in part due to the need for a cultural shift in education to accommodate them. Currently, many competences young people will need for the future world of interactive technology and 'bottom-up' information, communication and democracy are mainly being developed through informal practices. These competences, which include adaptability, managing ambiguity, and agency are discussed in relation to civic participation. 

Three legends can be seen as variations on one central theme, namely, that it is the learner who knows best and that she or he should be the controlling force in her or his learning. Digital natives, learning styles and learners as self-educators are all discussed.

Take Control aims to support gamers whose gaming has gone from fun to harmful. It also has information for parents and friends of gamers who may have gaming problems. We tapped into expert advice from ten computer/console/phone gamers aged 12-17 as well as from university researchers and experts on gambling addiction to put together some screening tools, checklists and resources. Visit www.rasa.org.au/takecontrol to learn more.

DIY PD - 10 tips and resources to help you along your lifelong learning journey...

Knowledge is power - but how do you plug into new ideas when organisational budgets are flipping the switch on PD?  There is a wealth of opportunities that won't cost the earth or force you to travel it to be found online - and there's more to explore than MOOCs and webinars. 

Relationships Australia (SA) is looking for up to 10 Adelaide area gamers who want to participate in paid consultancy work about online gaming through a program called Keep It Fun. The end game is to create an online or mobile widget/app/info source for gamers aged 12 to 17 to help them work out whether they've got game and are keeping it fun or whether their gaming habits are pwning them.

Some thoughts on participatory pedagogy and MOOCs...

Neuroscience has shown that our brains are plastic and that education, gaming and the use of technology can change our brains' connectivity, function and structure. (1, 2) But learning is more than just biology - it is affected by our learning environment and the people with whom and from whom we learn. So how do you take what neuroscience reveals about the plastic, learning brain and combine it with educational research, expertise and common sense? Klevar, in association with Flinders University, are offering you the chance to explore this with Dr Paul Howard-Jones of the University of Bristol, researcher and author of "Introducing Neuroeducational Research: Neuroscience, Education and the Brain from Contexts to Practice".

Australians, compare the Labor and Liberal NBN plans and decide for yourself how fast the NBN should be. Keep in mind too that one plan calls for the installation of already archaic equipment, the other future proofs our telecommunications and data connections for decades.

For learners very, very new to the internet - including mature learners who are a bit techno-phobic. This video introduces browsers including how to find version, how to use tabs, how to add bookmark and navigation bars, etc.

In this post, I'm going to do a quick run through of some ways you can start to use PowerPoint to build engaging learning experiences.

If you're near your Skype account and Skype device tonight (Wednesday, 11 April, 630pm Adelaide time) - I'd welcome your participation in a test call to kick the tyres on Skype premium. Details on my blog: http://kerryj.com/2012/04/11/skype-premium-test/