What is the contemporary pedagogy? Well, it is a complex topic and hard to answer. As a new instructor this semester, I would say contemporary pedagogy is an innovative idea that will be updated in different eras. During the pandemic situation, the teaching methods are quite different from the usual times. Students are experiencing new atmosphere and instructors also need to get used to how to teach students virtually. After we go back to normal situation, the teaching methods will be as normal as before.
Another interesting reflection is about the difference between the digital pedagogy and the virtual teaching. Although virtual teaching involves many technological aspects, it is still not enough to say virtual teaching equals to the digital pedagogy. Digital pedagogy is a broader idea compared to virtual teaching and it is a teaching philosophy rather than using some high-techs. Nowadays, technology makes it easier and complex to teach at the same time. In the past, teachers can just reply on chalks to finish all instructions and Ph.D. student can finish their dissertation by hands. Decades later, technology makes the teaching assignments easier but students and instructors need to grasp the ability of using technology. I hold the strong conviction that digital pedagogy is more than technologies but also includes the philosophy of how to use technologies.
Last but not least, many classmates shared their personal experience as TA or instructors during this special situation. We all agree that it is a hard time for both students and teachers. Everyone finds it hard to keep track of different deadlines, especially we are blocked in one room for a long time. Also, exceptions can be made for students who are in troubles but rules are rules. Necessary assistances should be offered to students but instructors also should not spoon-feed students.
Zhenyu's blog 
You bring up an important point in that virtual teaching does not equate to digital pedagogy! This semester has presented all of us with new situations and lots of troubleshooting with technology, but it’s amazing to see just how smooth our classes have been able to become after just a few months of tweaking and adapting!
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I liked that you pointed out that the definition of contemporary pedagogy is ever-changing and that you pointed out the current pandemic times. It made me realize that our current conception of contemporary pedagogy applies specifically to virtual learning because our current era is that of the pandemic. Eventually this will change, the pandemic will end, and with that the definition of contemporary pedagogy will evolve again. I think it’s important to be mindful of that so we’re always thinking about what’s best for our students right now.
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Zhenyu, thank you for these thoughts. I have been thinking a lot recently about the difficulties this semester poses for all of us. It is extremely disheartening to realize that many students are going through extremely difficult situations and that our capacities to help them may be limited. In fact, our classes, to a certain extent, may get in the way of their lives if they are caring for someone who is ill with COVID-19. This may result in students being unable to meet class expectations. What do we do in this situation? What is the point of an education? I think these are things the current crisis is forcing us to confront and there are not easy answers, except that I think it is essential that we connect as human beings and show compassion.
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