Using mobile devices to engage students in attaining and self-reporting the new B.C. core competencies

Abstract

British Columbia is currently implementing a new curriculum. The B.C. Ministry of Education (2015b) is working to develop “Educated Citizens” capable of meeting the demands of the 21st Century. In designing the new curriculum, the Ministry seeks to create flexible learning environments capable of supporting the variety of needs modern students have. Technology plays a role in this new flexible learning environment. Mobile learning (M-Learning), as a subset of electronic learning (E-Learning), can provide a powerful tool that many students already possess. Underpinning the new B.C. Curriculum are six Core Competencies; Communication, Creative Thinking, Critical Thinking, Positive Personal & Cultural Identity, Personal Awareness & Responsibility and Social Responsibility. As part of the new curriculum, the B.C. Ministry of Education (2015b) requires students to self-report on their attainment of the Core Competencies. M-Learning creates an opportunity for “in your pocket learning” (Quinn, 2000). Be it in the traditional classroom or in an anytime, anyplace basis, M-Learning can deliver and evidence learning beyond the traditional brick and mortar school (Peters, 2007). The Critical Challenge Question, ‘How can students be engaged in their own learning by using mobile devices to self-assess the new BC Curriculum’s Core Competencies?’ is informed by the findings of this paper and has been applied in the creation of a M-Learning website. The website is intended to provide resources to B.C. teachers regarding M-Learning and how mobile devices can be used by students to self-report the new Core Competences.