Reflection: Enhancing Instruction with Technology

Throughout this course, I have learned how to use technology in my instruction taking in the ideas of the various leaning theories.  Dr. Wolfe helped me to understand the brain and how the brain can affect teaching methods.  I also developed a personal learning theory.  Throughout this course, I have reflected on my personal learning theory and believe that my personal learning theory portrays everything that I've learned.  We also learned about the behaviorist learning theory.  Behaviorist learning theory strongly influenced instructional practice in the 20th century and continues to influence practice today, particularly in the area of classroom management.  Cognitive learning theory marks a shift in focus from the role of behavior in learning to the various mental processes associated with learning and memory.  We also learned about various technology tools that exhibit these learning theories that could easily be integrated into instructional practice.  Concept mapping tools and virtual field trips are examples of great technology tools that teachers could use in the classroom.  Constructivist theory incorporates the cognitivist ideals about the brain’s function in learning, and further asserts that through these cognitive processes, each individual constructs unique and distinct understandings.  While learning about the constructivist theory, we were able to explore voice threads.  This is another example of a technology tool that teachers could so easily integrate into the classroom.  While constructivist learning theory states that we build our own unique understandings of the world around us, social learning theory adds that we construct meaning primarily through our interactions with others and with our environment.  This is a learning theory that is going to constantly grow and become more evident in schools because of all of the new social networking tools available.  Dr. Pickering and Dr. Marzano teach us about the nine instructional startegies.  These startegies make teaching successful and enhance student learning.

My 1st Voice Thread!

http://voicethread.com/share/2302866/

Connectivism and Social Learning in Practice

With social learning theories, students are actively engaged in constructing artifacts and conversing with others.  Collaborative and cooperative learning are key components in the social learning theory of connectivism.  Cooperative learning refers to the numerous methods of grouping students.  Cooperative learning takes a closer look at the potential benefits for learners.  Effective cooperative learning occurs when students work together to accomplish shared goals and when positive factors are in place to support them.  Students help each other learn and encourage individual team members’ success.  Interpersonal and small-group skills are in place, including communication, decision making, conflict resolution, and time management.  Grouping students to work collaboratively and cooperatively offers benefits for learners.  Teachers who are successful at facilitating cooperative learning employ research-based strategies.