Module Readings
Chambers, J. M., & Carbonaro, M. (2003). Designing, developing, and implementing a course on LEGO Robotics for technology teacher education.Journal of Technology and Teacher Education, 11(2), 209-241.
This paper discusses the development of a teacher education course that is based on constructivist strategies and robotic technology as learning tools. Robotics are incorporated into daily learning as learners construct their own knowledge through educational technology and discovery.
Kop, R., & Hill, A. (2008, October). Connectivism: Learning theory of the future or vestige of the past. International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9(3), 1-14. Retrieved from http://www.irrodl.org/index.php/irrodl/article/view/523/1103
This paper discusses and analyzes the relevance of the learning theory of "connectivism" to today's 21st century classroom in comparison to traditional learning theories. It concludes that connectivism has had a major impact on current and future educational theory; however, it has not taken the place of any major learning theory.
Dembo, M. H., & Howard, K. (2007). Advice about the use of learning styles: A major myth in education. Journal of College Reading and Learning, 37(2), 101-109.
This paper discusses the use of learning style instruction in the classroom and how learning styles have an impact on student learning overall. This paper is meant to initiate conversation about this topic regarding the effectiveness of incorporating learning styles into the daily classroom instruction.
Gookool-Ramdoo, S. (2008). Beyond the theoretical impasse: Extending the applications of Transactional Distance Theory. International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 9(3), 1-17.
Transactional Distance Theory or TDT refers to distance learning environments, resources, and strategies. Very little research and discussion has occurred regarding this theory and how it applies across the globe regarding its impact and effectiveness in distance education.
Olson, J. (2006). The myth of catering to learning styles. Science and Children, 44(2), 56-57.
This article addresses one of the major myths in education regarding teaching students according to their learning styles. There is no support behind this assumption that students an only learn according to their specific learning style. Instead, teachers need to assess how best to deliver the content and incorporate a variety of instructional strategies to enhance student learning.
Stager, G. S. (2001). Constructionism as a high-tech intervention strategy for at-risk learners. Proceedings of the 22nd National Educational Computing Conference, Chicago, IL.
This document describes a constructivist learning environment enhanced with a computer and technology-enhanced laboratory. This learning environment focuses on encouraging at-risk students by utilizing educational technology and constructivist learning strategies.
Taylor, E. (2007). An update of transformative learning theory: A critical review of the empirical research (1999-2005). International Journal of Lifelong Education, 26(2), 173-191. doi:10.1080/02601370701219475
This paper analyzes several references about transformative learning concerning its background and current research. Learner interpretation and reflection are a couple of the major factors in transformative learning, which were discussed throughout the paper through describing resources and other information.
As a result of the readings and discussions, what have I learned and thought about?
The readings discussed the main topics of constructivism, connectivism, learning styles, and transformative learning theory. I have now learned more about how constructivism and connectivism relate to today's classroom and instructional strategies. These theories, along with transformative theory, are being discussed more often regarding the 21st century classroom and educational technology. I also found the articles about learning styles in the classroom to be incredibly interesting because of how they looked at the effectiveness and impact of using learning styles in instructional practices.
The Module discussion that I participated in discussed using constructivism in the classroom and the teacher's role and responsibilities. We discussed about how the teacher needs to facilitate and guide constructivist learning activities as students construct their own knowledge through discovery and exploration. Teachers must not only provide the students with the material, but they must also provide the students with constant support and be able to guide students to the correct conclusion. Teachers must have extensive knowledge about their content in order to answer all of the questions that may arise from student learning activities.
How will my knowledge and experiences influence my actions and the actions of those around me?
My knowledge and experiences will directly affect my instructional strategies and hopefully influence students and teachers around me. I plan on incorporating more constructivist and connectivist instructional strategies in my classroom as a result of learning more about the backgrounds of these strategies. My experiences with these theories and discussions regarding relevance to today's classroom and technology will inspire me to think more critically and creatively in my work. My actions will influence my students to learn more and think more critically, which will hopefully in turn lead to inspiring other teachers as they see the results of these theories and practices in my classroom.
What interactions have been the most valuable?
The interactions that have been the most valuable are the discussions within each module, the resources page, the glossary page, and the module readings. I personally enjoy glancing through all of the resources, because they are all valuable resources for this program and this class. I also really like the discussions since they are facilitated by the students and the questions are very open-ended and allow room for exploration and a variety of opinions. I feel like I learn more from these discussions because the students collectively "construct" their own knowledge of the topic.
The resource that I added to the wiki.
The resource that I added is a great bookmark for everyone in this program, especially for educators. This site includes a variety of links about enhancing learning with technology. It also includes resources and links to information about learning theories, strategies, and tools. As an educator, there are a variety of links and resources that provide resources and insight to effective teaching and learning strategies. This website is a great place to find resources for this class and other classes in the educational technology program. Link: http://members.shaw.ca/priscillatheroux/introduction.html
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