Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology Reflection

I started this course believing I was a cognivist at heart. After eight insightful weeks of class, I still stand firm in believing in the cognivist learning theories described in this course, but I have also learn to accept other learning theories to be of great value. I still believe that every child learns in a different way and it is our duty as educators to get to know each of our students' personal learning styles to best cater to their needs to ensure success. My goal each day is to get to know each of my students just a little more so I can design lessons that are engaging to them and are presented in a way that they will be able to store that information in their long-term memory for years to come. This is, essentially, modeling my classroom around Gardner's theory of multiple intelligences. I have always conducted my classroom in this way and will continue doing so.

Even though I'm a cognivist at heart, I do realize the potential of other learning theories such as the Constructivist and Social Constructivist theories. In today's workforce based on mass global communication and teamwork, Social Constructivism really caters to preparing students with the necessary 21st century skills students will need to be successful in the future. Students working together to accomplish one common goal is a exactly like the successful business models of many multimillion dollar companies. This is something that has always been implemented in my classroom, I just now have the realization of the label and an understanding of its benefits.

In terms of technology, this course has also taught me the importance of using PowerPoint as a learning tool, rather than simply an instructional tool. Each component of my lessons contribute to its success. My presentations need to be more interactive and filled with images to promote the "dual coding" process. Also, implementation of Web 2.0 tools such as virtual field trips, interactive concept maps, and VoiceThread will prove to be crucial in my students educational development.

In fact, one of my goals throughout this year is to get my classroom, and eventually my school on board with utilizing the power of VoiceThread. I have already talked to my vice principal about its potential and have priced out some hardware to be used in the classroom and, if the budget allows us, we should be able to order them within the month. Once I have the supplies, I would like to train my students on how to use VoiceThread. I would show them how to create one, respond to one, and everything else that goes along with it. I plan on doing this throughout the third and fourth marking period and would like for them to have a completed product by the end of the year.

Another goal of mine is to make my PowerPoint presentations more interactive. I am receiving a SmartBoard sometime in January and my goal is to make my "instructional" PowerPoints more of a learning tool. Basically by utilizing the hardware and software that comes with my new SmartBoard, I'll be able to accomplish this goal. My ultimate goal is to ensure the success of each student that walks into my classroom. This course has given me the tools and ideas on how to conduct my classroom to help me reach my ultimate goal.

Cooperative Technology

Tomas Friedman quotes "we are living in a time when learning and innovation are increasingly global. To be prepared for the fast-paced, virtual workplace that they will inherit, today's students need to be able to learn and produce cooperatively" (2005). With that idea in mind, I have fully embraced the idea of utilizing various forms of educational technology to aid the social learning process. And to top it off, I'm pretty pumped about it!

I remember when I was a student in ninth grade, one of my favorite assignments was a group project in which we had to create a video illustrating our view on the effects of media and the human mind. We all did our research, came together to discuss our findings, and cooperative created a video with a camcorder and index cards for on-screen text that we were really proud of at the time. This is a prime example of social constructivism and social learning.

Looking back on this video, which I still have by the way, I can only imagine how much better it would have looked if we recorded it on a digital video camera, inserted titles and texts with our computer, and maybe even added some special effects digitally. These multimedia upgrades allow students to produce a better looking product in only a fraction of the time.

A more global form of social learning which is becoming easier by the day is the creation of student websites. Programs like Microsoft Office Publisher, TOWeb, and SiteSpinner can allow even the most novice of students to create a professional looking website. Students can easily collaborate their ideas to construct a worthwhile artifact.

Even gaming has taken a form of social learning. Games and websites such as www.homesofourown.org, www.jigsaw.com, and even Sid Meier's Civilization III allow students to work cooperatively to accomplish a common goal, thus emphasizing social learning. The best part is, just about everything I have mentioned is at the fingertips of all our students in our very own classroom. The possibilities are endless and with a steady stream of Web 2.0 applications like VoiceThread developing everyday, its only going to get more and more global and educational.

Check out a VoiceThread I made about how students can use VoiceThread to create presentations at voicethread.com/share/786134/.