The tutor as an agent of change

• Main Authors: Kiong, Frank, Dr, Mary An, Vaz
• Format: Article
• Subjects: LC5201 Education extension. Adult education. Continuing education
• Online Access: http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/140/1/the_tutor_as_an_agent.pdf; http://library.oum.edu.my/repository/140/

Quality and continuous improvement in Higher Education requires participation from tutors performing the role of change agents through action research designed to enhance the use of ICT in Higher Education. This tutor conducted an action research at Institut Perguruan Sarawak where ICT was infused into the pedagogy. This case study documents the use of a DVD entitled “Coach Carter” together with internet investigation to stimulate students to use ICT in innovative pedagogy. The theoretical perspective is Interpretivism and the research methodology is Phenomenology. Interpretivism is concerned with people constructing meaning. Phenomenology calls upon the researchers to break away from habitual patterns of thought that limit thinking. Data collection included the use of different formats of reflection sheets. Data analysis was done with a “Three Step Writing Method” moving from Protocol Writing, to Hermeneutic Writing and Phenomenology. The report on this action research was used as to teach students the process of research as a way to continuous improvement. It was also used to stimulate students to infuse ICT in innovative pedagogy. Collegial dialogue between this tutor and the Director of OUM Sarawak led to tutor – administrator collaboration in sharing good practices through the OUM Learning Management System. This case study indicates that tutors can be agents of change in using ICT in Higher education by conducting action research. (Authors' abstract)