Pass the SoLT

A recent paper entitled 'Talking Back to Theory' by Sue Bennett and Martin Oliver in the latest issue of Research in Learning Technology is one of the more thought-provoking reads of 2011.

The paper argues that research into learning technology is driven by far too much rhetoric and more explicit attention needs to be given to theory. It makes a case for greater engagement with theory through examples from three case studies and goes some way to illustrating the value of creating a more dynamic relationship between theory and practice. Although I'm not sure I totally agree with the sweeping claim that 'theory has had a relatively small role to play in learning technology research to date', there is no question that the field is dominated by 'hype and excitement rather than evidence' (Bennett & Oliver, 2011, p.179). Moreover, a pragmatic interest in exploring the affordances of the latest technological developments is often at the expense of serious theorizing.

Having said that, it's important to recognise that social, economic and educational theories (at least the established ones) can be blinding and rather than 'make sense' of the affordances and possibilities of new learning technologies through our existing theoretical lens, we need to engage in theory building in order to truly imagine alternative learning futures. In particular, I'm talking about futures which are more equitable, socially just and sustainable... for all. Nevertheless, I can't disagree with the following conclusion:

'Research in learning technology has focused on practical, instrumental concerns, to the detriment of its ability to engage with theory. Previous reviews have show that theory has been relatively neglected, with most of those examples that do use theory best characterised as applying it rather than engaging with it in a critical or scholarly way. This situation risks turning the field into a narrow and derivative area of work: at best, only able to draw from other areas; and at worst, only of relevance to those with a vested interest in the specific practical situation currently under study' (p.187).

Let's hope we see more creative and imaginative theories in 2012 as real alternatives solutions to the deep-seated problems we face, which have haunted us over the last 12 months, as our futures really do depend on them. That's probably a good note to sign off for the year as I plan to take a few weeks of much needed rest and relaxation.

Footnote: I need to state for the record that many of our so-called theories are based at best on pop psychology and unsubstantiated sweeping generalizations, so I'm not advocating for more creative theories without supporting evidence. Put bluntly the field suffers from far too much rubbish written in the name of theory, as illustrated by concepts such as the digital native.