| | AUGUST - 202219Evolution of the Learning ParadigmBy Fatma Elshobokshy, Director of Learning Technology, University of the District of ColumbiaSince March 2020, the pandemic forced UDC to take a trip to the future to maintain access to learning in the virtual world. To operate our classroom virtually, we had to adopt Web 2.0 tools, which played a key role in the evolution of the learning paradigm at UDC. The value of the Web 2.0 tools (Kaltura, hypothesis, TikTok, etc.) is that they allow our students to be active learners who curate knowledge. Thus, creating a student-centered learning environment. As we reclaim our physical space, we need to take a closer look at the status of classroom technologies to keep moving forward. Building capacity for faculty to adopt educational technologies was fast-tracked to adhere to academic standards and keep the students engaged. We offered CXO INSIGHTSa variety of options for the faculty to be trained, both synchronous and asynchronous options were available. Self-guided tutorials were provided to assist with any questions, along with virtual office hours and coaches to help adapt to the new environment. We upgraded our Learning management system (LMS) from basic environment to be the center hub of our learning ecosystem by integrating all applications to drive up the adoption rate. Faculty and students can access all tools within the LMS. This was an eye-opening experience for the academic community. We realized that technology and education are inseparable. Now, faculty are not limiting themselves to only embracing the use of Web 2.0 in their teaching. They are looking even further with the use of immersive technologies to increase learning outcomes.Is our physical space ready to Aspire, Accomplish, Take on the World? Since we have been operating classrooms in virtual space, our classroom technologies are now outdated because we were on a fast track to construct a comprehensive virtual learning environment to keep our campuses open. I would argue that this upgrade is a much easier task than a complete overhaul since the new paradigm has shown us exactly what is necessary. No fancy equipment is needed. We can start with small but scalable equipment. For example, installation of an interactive smart board and strengthened internet and Wi-Fi connection are needed in the classroom for it to fully function. In an environment like this, one can argue that we have to provide a computer for each student, to create a learner-centered environment. However, the pandemic
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