What are your beliefs about how people learn best? What is the purpose of learning theory in educational technology?
My beliefs and experiences teaching is that people learn best by being engaged in their learning. Technology is one way that students can easily become engaged while learning. Students can use smartphones, computers, and iPads to access podcasts, video casts, and other technology that allows them to delve further into a subject matter.
Students are able to express what they have learned in a much different manner than just a few years ago. For instance a student is required to memorize the various characteristics of geometric shapes. That student may remember that material for that specific test, but a few weeks or months later he or she has forgotten it. Another student is allowed to create an electronic format to show real world examples of the same geometric shapes and then explain the characteristic. The student who created the electronic format will be more invested in his or her learning and more likely to remember the characteristics of the geometric shapes.
References:
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ITC - Explore Technology In Relation To Learning Theories - Integrating Technology In The Classroom[Online video]. (2011). Simplek12Team. Retrieved September 14, 2011,
from http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9iwmfocsRuU
Kellie -
ReplyDeleteI like your blog. Neat.
I am in total agreement with you in that the student making the power point is vested in his learning and more likely to remember the shapes.
Technology does afford us the hands on opportunity for enhanced learning opportunities.
Thank you.
Roger
Kellie, I agree that students now can present information in a different manner. Have you noticed that they use the cut and paste function a bit too much? I have found that the students do not see a problem with copying information without really understanding it or identifying their sources.
ReplyDeleteJan
Hello Kellie,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your post and I wish that my school allowed usage of various technology devices. You presented various devices for technology integration and assessment of learning. In regards to the geometric shapes in the digital environment, what would you recommend for the teacher that has to account for digital equity? Some students will not have the opportunity to explore with applications like Logos Path to engage with the geometric shapes. This is a challenge that I have in the classroom. I recommend the students utilize the local library for technology access or family member computers. Some students are still left behind due to lack of technology in the home.
April
April - My building/district is quite lucky in the avenue of technology. Also, if the students do not have technology at home the library has a internet they can use. I often forget how lucky I am until I read posts from other teachers.
ReplyDeleteCan you have them stay after school and use the school computer lab?