Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology Reflection

My personal learning theory has only been strengthened through the learning’s in this course. My teaching style still follows the social constructivism theory including collaborative group work as well as fully engaging students in the learning process (Laureate, 2009). However, new information presented has taught me the importance of maintaining current on education research. Dual coding or using multi-modalities to present and learn information has been proved to be most effective in moving information to long term memory (Laureate, 2009). Also, the use of images will help strengthen student’s ability to retain information.

This course has affected my teaching by reminding me that technology is most effective when used by the students not at them. I plan to continue to use the SmartBoard as a tool to encourage participation amongst students. I will incorporate images into presentations to help student’s link information to prior knowledge (Laureate, 2009). Another technology tool that I will be using with my students is the Voice Thread. The Voice Thread allows student’s to communicate and share their work with a live audience. Many of today’s businesses center on virtual board rooms where groups work together via live satellite. Providing an audience for student work may also help develop intrinsic motivation.

One permanent change in my teaching will be the use of images in presentations, assignments, and assessments. Images help students to link new information to prior knowledge, which is the ultimate goal for an educator. Another goal of mine is to use technology to engage students into the lesson and help immerse them in the learning.


References:

Laureate Education Inc., (2009). Behaviorist Learning Theory. Bridging learning, theory,instruction, and technology. Baltimore.