One main reason for beginning my journey at Walden University was to move from the old, mundane curriculum to the dynamic, exciting, and present day technologically savvy classroom. As Moller (2008) discussed the middle of the road in her unpublished article, I believe that is where I have been for quite some time. While using the technology afforded to me in this district, I have searched the Internet on many occasions for tools to enhance learning. The games, simulations, PowerPoint presentation, videos, just to name a few, were static and didn’t provide much collaboration or allowed for much creativity and input from the student.
I couldn’t help but notice; however, that tools placed in my graphic organizer under one element could also be placed in another. Did you recognize that situation, and is it possible that dynamic tools such as Wikis and Blogs could be used in effective collaboration while enhancing communication?
Needless to say, in only six months, I have added so much more. My style of teaching is changing from teacher centered to student centered. Independent learning is the driving force for life long-learning.
I have networked with many teachers that have given me ideas, tips, tools, and inspiration beyond my expectations. I am adding online collaborative tools through piloted programs, and I am making plans to include my department and my district in my venture for next year.
Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tools. [Unpublished Paper].
~Wanda Ardoin-Bailey
Yes, I did notice that some of the tools could fit into another category. I found that interesting too. I enjoyed your organizer. I see that you put 2 of the same things I did for static collaboration. I found this one to be harder than the rest. What do you think?
ReplyDeleteIf you are referring to the static collaboration, I believe it was difficult because as teachers we try desperately to add value to our instruction. This is a great sign of the times. What kind of impact do you think distance education has played on static collaboration? It seems like this is a question of what came first…the chicken or the egg?
ReplyDeleteI was very impressed by your concept map and came away with the idea of interchangeability. Also, I was glad to see that you have changed your teaching focus to a more learner centered classroom. It is the wave of the future for our students, and I have to say that some of my own students are finding themselves more able to learn concepts when they are allowed to "think for themselves" in their own styles of learning. This is what will propel future leaders to a more cohesive team oriented creativity. Thanks for the added links too!
ReplyDeleteI believe with some imagination some static choices can be dynamic. For example, students can provide their own spin on a video. The mistake we often make is show a video, but by allowing our student the independence to edit they could learn the content in re-deliver back to their classmates and others in ways we did not consider. Wanda, there is no doubt powerpoint slides are static and have been done to death. Who should we blame for the unnecessary method of overkill of this passive delivery style? How might Flickr be used as a dynamic method to engage students? I believe with some latitude many choices can work in both options.
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