Reflection: Effective Bridging of Technology and Instruction

This course has made me realize that it is very important for teachers to understand student learning to effectively plan for instruction. It has also shown how important it is to use technology as a learning tool instead of just an instructional tool.

At the beginning of this course, my personal theory of how students learn was the constructivist theory. Lever-Duffy and McDonald explain that Piaget “theorized that children construct mental maps as they encounter information,” and “new knowledge is either assimilated or accommodated.” I still believe my students learn predominately through constructivism, but now I realize that they also use the social constructionist theory as they work together in cooperative learning groups or with partners; most of my students prefer this style of learning.

This course has also made me very aware of how important it is to consider Gardner’s multiple-intelligence theory since students have distinctive cognitive and learning styles. These learning styles are accompanied by different intelligence considerations. Using differentiated instruction in a diverse classroom allows students to learn best according to their preferred learning style. This course has made me realize that providing a variety of leaning modalities to meet students’ learning styles will enhance their learning.

I plan on using more learning tool technology such as Voice Thread and concept mapping. Voice Thread would promote active engagement in the classroom. “Student-created multimedia is a natural environment for cooperative learning.” (Pitler, H, [et al], 2007). Visual field trips create episodes with rich experiences and incorporate all of the cognitive theories (Orey, 2007).
Using concept mapping tools supports dual coding with visual representation and helps visualize ideas and make connections; something my students need more practice with.

I also plan on using more virtual field trips as an interactive learning tool. Virtual field trips will allow what Orey calls the elaboration and rich opportunity to witness history and engage in critical thinking.

My long-term goal for integrating technology into the classroom is to incorporate it into every lesson as a learning tool. I also plan to provide my students with a wide variety of technology as learning tools while not depending on it so much as an instructional tool. I can do this by accessing the mobile laptops or the computer lab daily. I can also allow the students to use the Smart Pad through ELMO and the LCD screen more often. My students are much more motivated, focused, and engaged when working with technology, and these strategies will provide them with this opportunity and will enhance their learning.

Cooperative Learning and Technology

My students are much more motivated and focused during group work. Using technology such as constructing a Voicethread or Power Point further enhances their learning and they enjoy it so much more!

My VoiceThread