LAB Vs Distributed Access

LAB -- Disadvantages & Advantages

• The downfall of many ILS (Integrated Learning System) Labs is that they are typically Aide Facilitated with Classroom Teacher Absent.  Results reflect lack of skill  integration into the curriculum or regular classroom.

• Typically too expensive & limited use due to scheduling problems
• Interaction typically only between student and computer or student and facilitator-- little interaction between peers.

• Typically REFLEX not REFLECTION software experiences
• Resulting in Poor Student Progress

ROLE of the LAB

Advantages:

• Easiest way to disseminate the greatest amount of information usually at the lowest levels of mastery (daily schedule)

• Everyone on the same skill, same page, at the same time (daily schedule)
• Typically, everyone at the same (low) Mastery Level

B. Distributed Access Advantage

-- Usually 1 to 10 stations (mini-labs) in each classroom

1. Cooperative Learning Roles  -- Social Interaction and human touch (reflection over reflex)
2. SCANS -- team work, resource management, time management, mentorships, and problem-solving, negotiation and communication skills
3. Ethics & Acceptable Use Policies -- "brains without restrains"
4. Opportunity for teacher-guided products at Upper Mastery Levels
5. Opportunity to teach What Employers Want.

ROLE of Both Settings

• To support
  • active-research
  • project-based
  • curriculum