How can we change thinking and perceptions?

A lot of research has been done everywhere in the world on the use of ICTs in the classroom - whether or not teachers are using it, how they are using it, whether or not it is making in difference on learner's performance, etc. etc.

Looking at the South African environment specifically, my concern is that we are spending a lot of time (and money) to find out more about the use of ICTs in education and how ICTs can enhance teaching and learning BUT while all this research is being conducted, too many learners are still exposed to "traditional classroom teaching" in environments where the infrastructure is there, yet the teachers are not willing (or able) to use it.

Dealing with perceptions: In Higher Education, for example, there is a perception that "online learning" is synonymous to "distance learning". I agree that it is a suitable medium for distance learning. However, residential students and lecturers can benefit as much from online learning as distance education students. To illustrate the value of online learning for distance learning students, click this URL and watch a 2-min video clip currently available on Youtube: . How can we take these insights and "carry them over" into ANY teaching and learning environment?

What do the students say? Maybe we should show this very short clip to more lecturers and teachers? What do you think? (It was created by a couple of students in the USA):

Two assignments later

Since the previous post, we had to submit our websites as well as a video. I really think the concept of my website has some potential :) Perhaps something that I can consider for future studies...

While looking for video material to use in my video, I was really amazed by what is currently available on the Internet for teachers! Do teachers in general know about the rich resource pool that they can tab into? By this I don't only refer to You tube. What about Microsoft Partners in Learning, Merlot and Mindset? Can anyone add to my list of "resource pools" - specifically suitable for teachers and learners in South Africa?