Reflection for course 6711

As I reflect upon this course as it comes to an end, I looked back on the theory I mentioned in application one. I talked about how I believe students learn by using what they have experienced and then use that information to expand their knowledge. I mentioned using graphic organizers, visual aids and hands on activities as a way to help my students make connections to their learning and also to be responsible for their work. I will continue to use visual aids, graphic organizers, and model activities in my classroom. I also plan to use the new technology tools learned from this class.

One thing that I plan to change is, to make better use of Concept maps, and VoiceThreads. I haven’t used either of these as instructional tools in the classroom but, I certainly am excited about getting started. I plan to utilize the new technology tools as learning tools with my students. “Learning tools are what the child can do with technology” (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009).

I have two long-term goals that I plan to incorporate in my classroom. The first is to teach my students how to use Voice Thread. I really like this assignment during this course. I found it to be very easy to use and I’m sure my students will like it too. I loved the idea of my students being able to interact with other students across the globe.
My second goal is to use virtual field trips. When I was exploring all of the virtual field trips that the internet has to offer, I was amazed at was offered. Shortly before this school year was over I explored a virtual field trip with my students. I was so excited about showing them what I had found that I basically just went to the site and explored it with them. So, I can only imagine how much better it will be when I actually plan a VT and the have the students create a concept map from what they have learned. Using virtual field trips is an awesome way to let student experience the world without ever leaving the classroom or having to ask parents for money or worrying about getting permission slips returned.

This course has provided me with so many resources to pack into my learning suitcase that I can not wait to start unpacking when school starts in the August. I am excited about sharing the strategies and technology tools that I have learned about with my colleagues. I don’t want to just share them I want to teach them how to use them effectively in their classrooms.


Reference:
Laureate Education, Inc., (Producer). (2009). Program thirteen. Technology: Instructional Tool vs. Learning Tool. [Motion Picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction and Technology. Baltimore: Author

Cooperative learning

This week’s strategies that were discussed were social learning techniques and technology resources. Social learning is the idea that people learn best by being actively engaged. Students learn best by interacting with their peers instead of trying to complete an assignment alone. One strategy that was discussed this week was how to incorporate techniques into the classroom. Group activities require students to be responsible for their learning. It is best to assign each student in the group with a role so that they are responsible for a specific portion and so that everyone in the group participates.
Another strategy I found useful is web quest. Using web quest allows students to interact with students all over the world to create projects. That excites me too! It encourages collaboration and problem solving which will benefit our students as they enter the world after high school. I can only imagine how much my fifth graders will experience by the time they graduate.
Technology has opened so many amazing opportunities to learn from that I cannot imagine how boring life would be without it. I am so excited about all the new technology strategies I have learn this far. I cannot wait to see what’s next.

Voicethread: application 5

I hope you enjoy my voicethread. I had difficulty with recording so I opted to just type my comments. http://voicethread.com/share/528916/