MD6: Learning theory

As a student with a disability, it is easier to learn online because I have time to reflect and process course content over time, as well as refer to those resources throughout the semester.  Unfortunately, it can be difficult for me to capture course content in a face to face class that uses traditional teaching methodologies. According to Driscoll (2005), educators are able to use instructional theory that supports customizable curriculum, which accommodates and addresses students with various learning styles and abilities.  During this program, I have realized how important it has become to be an active and engaged member of online learning communities. For instance, the weekly discussions offer me access to a group of learners with very different experiences and backgrounds. This diversity enhances my overall understanding of how education is being impacted by technology across the country, as well as educational strategies that I could use in the classroom.

As an educator, I believe that it is important to create a learning space that supports the needs of diverse learners.  More specifically, I believe that students need to be at the center of the learning experience, and the educator’s role is to guide students, in knowledge construction and application, in various contexts. According to Driscoll (2005), it is not enough for students to take in the information; they must also use the knowledge, within various contexts.  For example, constructionism offers educators a theoretical framework that allows students to explore, think and reflect on their environment.  I believe that in order to ensure students have the skills needed to be successful; educators must put students at the center of the learning experience.

Driscoll, M. P. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education.

MD5: Keller's ARC Model

Recently, our consortium leadership team decided to utilize Webinar technology in order to save travel time for teachers and ensure 100% group attendance at monthly meetings. Unfortunately, the secondary partners had a difficult time teaching their classes, and participating as consortium group members because of travel time.  In order to ensure secondary participation, we opted to try Webinar technology, which would allow teachers to be in the classroom and still attend the meetings, because they did not have to drive30-40 minutes for a two hour meeting.

Initially, there was a lot of ambivalence from the group on adopting this technology. Consequently, most of the members were unfamiliar with its function and capabilities. In order to obtain 100% adoption, the leadership team purchased the necessary tools needed (camera for computer, headphones, and the Webinar technology) to meet virtually and perform consortium work.  Once the technology was in place, the executive team offered hands on training, which allowed consortium members the opportunity to learn how to set up and attend meetings. Before the hands on training, we utilized a tutorial that walked them through the processes needed to master and use the technology.  Also, those that were comfortable and well versed in using this technology volunteered to answer questions and provide feedback on their use of the technology.

Additionally, we shared with them the value this technology could bring to the group. For instance, secondary teachers would not have to pay substitute teachers, drive to meeting locations, and they would save time and money for their districts.  Within two months, consortium members were motivated to use the technology because of the repeated successes they had with the technology over time.  According to Driscoll (2005), Keller’s ARC model serves to motivate engagement and learning by including these four components relevance, attention, confidence, and satisfaction. 

Driscoll, M. P. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction. Boston, MA: Pearson Education.

Classmate’s blogs that I responded to:

http://lylesedtech.blogspot.com/2012/08/motivating-students-in-beginning.html?showComment=1344440046809#c559592435697108156

http://corablades1.blogspot.com/2012/08/moduel-5-new-technologies.html#comment-form