What new things have I learned or thought about as a result of the readings and discussions?
I have learned and thought much about the dual-coding theory, which I wrote about in my first paper, and about mobile learning in connection to educational theory in the module 3 discussion. Dual-coding theory relates to my content area of foreign language, therefore I was able to apply my knowledge and personal experience with language instruction to have a better understanding of the theory. Dual-coding applies to the two systems of memorization, where one memorizes through imagery and through textual cues. One can memorize using just words or images alone; however, the dual-coding theory states that using both images and text improves the overall retention of information.
I also have enjoyed the discussion with my classmates about mobile learning. I found several resources that discussed mobile learning regarding educational theory and my classmates shared their personal experiences and opinions. We have discussed which major theory categories mobile learning would apply to, such as social constructivism and behaviorism. We also discussed how to implement mobile learning, and what mobile devices and applications are available for educational purposes. The mobile device is only a resource used to enhance and support the educational theory itself.
My favorite course reading for this module was the article from EDUCAUSE, A Seismic Shift in Epistemology, that discusses the shift in traditional learning to a more collaborative (Web 2.0) type of learning. I found this article to be extremely interesting, especially since it relates to a shift that is currently happening at my school, in which teachers are being encouraged to make content more relevant and to incorporate more 21st century instructional resources and strategies. I definitely agree that education is finally beginning to realize this shift in learning and constructing meaning. I am excited for all of the changes that are yet to occur, and I feel like this graduate program is extremely beneficial for my career in education.
How might my knowledge and experiences influence my actions, and the actions of those around me?
My knowledge and experiences greatly influence my actions and thoughts concerning my everyday instructional practices and strategies. I also have applied my knowledge and experience to my involvement in a committee at my school which concentrates on incorporating technology into the classroom as well as implementing 21st century learning and instructional strategies. I constantly discuss what I learn in my graduate classes with other educators. I am also realizing that this class about applying educational theory to educational technology will definitely help me to prove how essential and beneficial the effective integration of technology will be in my school. I enjoy learning and discussing about how traditional instruction and learning can be enhanced through educational technology. I hope to use my knowledge and personal experience with educational technology in order to convince other educators to take action with technology in order to provide a more effective learning environment. I will definitely also be applying and using my knowledge of the dual-coding theory and mobile learning in order to improve my students' learning experience.
What interactions have I had (with other students, with the text, or with other materials) that have been the most valuable?
I have definitely enjoyed the module 3 discussion that I have led, in which we have extensively discussed mobile learning in connection with educational theories. Everyone has different thoughts and opinions about the incorporation of mobile learning into his/her classroom. I enjoy learning about each discussion participant's personal experience with mobile learning devices and tools. I also find it refreshing to see that not everyone was in complete agreement throughout the entire discussion, and the topic seemed to inspire several postings. Throughout the discussion, my classmates would intrigue me with certain comments which would cause me to think and explore some more about mobile learning. I searched for and included links to a variety of resources throughout the discussion, which definitely challenged me to learn more about the aspects of mobile learning that I had yet to consider before the discussion. I look forward to the next discussion.
The resource or glossary item that I added to the wiki for module 3.
I added a link to the web resource http://www.futurelab.org.uk/, which has a variety of resources and links to research and projects about the future of education regarding educational technology. Several articles and other resources discussed how specific technologies and other educational practices are based on learning theories. I especially enjoyed reading through some of the Vision Magazine articles, which can be downloaded in PDF or subscribed to through email. Some specific articles/resources that I found interesting were about language learning projects and about mobile learning research (since in pertained to my module discussion).
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