Pedagogy and Learning Spaces in IT

Abstract

In order to plan for the future, we need to understand the past and present better. There is a dearth of data on Information Technology (IT) teaching practice. This is an explorative study that documents and appraises current IT teaching practices, with a particular emphasis on the extent to which the layout of computer laboratories impact on teacher pedagogy. Recent discussion on learning spaces has focussed more on collaborative spaces or student hubs, without really addressing the needs of regular IT users - teachers and students. This paper will discuss the various challenges for IT teachers, and make suggestions for future improvements. This investigation is part of a larger study into the pedagogy of IT teachers, and how it is articulated through classroom practice. It is a qualitative enquiry that adopts a case study methodology triangulated by classroom observation, videotapes, teacher interviews and student questionnaires.