Walden Course Reflection

When I first started this Walden course I described my personal learning theory as being one that combines many theories into one while putting a greater emphasis on the latest brain research. I still believe in my personal learning theory, but it has broadened to incorporate a better understand of how technology can support my personal and many other learning theories. I understand how to better utilize the technology that is present in my school and aid student learning by connecting the tools appropriately to specific learning theories and practices.

Integrating technology with classroom learning does not mean technology is present for the students, a teacher should be able to explain why they are using the technology and what makes it appropriate for the lesson they are teaching. I am anxious to use Voicethread more often with my students and enhance their learning. This tool gives the learner advantages over other learning tools by allowing the learner to choose their method of answering. Students can demonstrate their understanding through multiple tools that play to their individual strengths. Another tool I am eager to use more often in the classroom is concept mapping on computers. This allows the students to display their ideas and make connections between learned and new information.

The long term goals I have put into place that involve integrating technology stem from a greater need to make connections outside of school. One is to establish a class website that will allow not only the students, but family members, the opportunity to make stronger connections with physical education. The second goal I have in place is to teach my students how to become successful bloggers, so they can learn another form of communication and learning that is appropriate for the twenty-first century.

My First Voicethread

I really like this new tool and its diverse capabilities.

http://voicethread.com/share/2092063/
 I definitely need to take back the headset I bought at Fry's, the audio doesn't sound very good, my apologies.

Social Learning Theory

I believe social constructionism most appropriately fits the direction of teaching towards the present and future.  We live in a world that is based on global communication working towards solving problems that are too complex for a single individual to handle on their own.  It is vital that our student learn to work collectively and be able to communicate effectively with one another.  In the book, Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, chapter seven is about cooperative learning.  The authors give many examples that support social learning theories as well as constructionism.  The authors describe cooperative learning as making sense and constructing meaning of new content through the interaction of others, just like social learning theories believe learning takes place by collaborating with peers and society (2007). 

The book gives many prime examples of cooperative learning that supports the social learning theories.  Students can create multimedia projects in groups, such as PowerPoints, they can create websites that display the information they discovered through a particular project.  Having the students create their own website not only supports social learning theories, but the constructionism theory as well.  Students can also work on projects such as wikis or use document sharing websites that allow them to work on a project in one area at anytime.  Whether the students are at school, home are anywhere with internet access they can contribute to their group's assignment.  There are many cooperative group activities that support social learning theory, but the most beneficial also allow the student to create final project that can be shared with others.  Incorporating technology with collaborative projects is one of the best ways to prepare our students for college and the working world.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.