Exploring Innovative Pedagogies: A collaborative study of master’s students at Universitat Jaume I

Abstract

This research delves into the research of 45 students currently enrolled in the ‘Teaching Innovation’ subject within the master’s program for teaching in Compulsory Secondary Education, Baccalaureate, Vocational Training, and Language Teaching at the Universitat Jaume I (UJI). The participants, aged 23 to 25 years, specialize in Language and Literature and Language Teaching, focusing on English, Catalan, and Spanish. The task assigned to the students involves collaborative research on innovative education. Organized into 11 groups, participants explore key authors and scholars in the field. Subsequently, they craft their own definitions of innovative education, elucidating methodologies and exemplifying best practices. The results of this endeavour offer a nuanced understanding of innovative educational approaches such as gamification, task-based approach, the use of ICTs, active or cooperative learning and provide valuable insights for further exploration in the realm of education. The research unfolds on the Aula Virtual platform, the virtual teaching and learning application employed at UJI. This platform aligns with the pedagogical principles of social constructivism and accommodates diverse teaching and learning styles. The utilization of this platform enhances the collaborative and interactive aspects of the research, fostering an environment conducive to innovative educational exploration. The findings from this study contribute to the ongoing discourse on innovative education by offering a practitioner-focused perspective. They also underscore the significance of virtual platforms like Aula Virtual in facilitating collaborative research and enriching the educational experience.