EDLD+5364+Week+4

Teaching with Technology Week 4 Reflection

In week four the topic was focused on designing student-centered learning experiences. From previous weeks’ readings there were multiple researches that indicated when students use technology they were more motivated and engaged in the learning experiences. Using these studies as foundations my group has developed technology rich learning activities that incorporate multimedia activities, collaborative learning as well as Web 2.0 tools. According to Pitler using multimedia is a natural setting for cooperative and collaborative learning, (Pitler, 2007, p.141) which is an ideal environment for a diverse group of learners. Each person could contribute his/her strength as well learning from each other by communicating effectively. Constructivist model and project-based learning that was covered in week one connects to the collaborative learning practices. New technology is the driving force behind project-based learning. Project-based learning is learning that results in demonstration of performance in real tasks. Students must gather ideas, be organized, come up with best solutions. They also need to collaborate so they develop to be socially capable, emotionally and intellectually grounded. (Edutopia.edu, Project Learning: An Overview) To provide meaning technology experiences to students it is essential that teachers are provided with current best practices in professional development. “To chart a new course, administrators must agree that the use of technology is a fundamental goal, and faculty members must participate in identifying it as a shared goal.” (Solomon, 2007, p.111)

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, 139-154 Solomon, G., & Schrum, L. (2007). Web 2.0: New tools, new schools. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education. p.99-116 Edutopia.org (nd). Project Learning: An Overview. Retrieved on Mar. 17, 2011 from @http://www.edutopia.org/project-based-learning-overview-video Edutopia.org (December 10, 2007). The Collaborative Classroom: An Interview with Linda Darling-Hammond. Filmed at the CASEL forum in New York City. Retrieved on Mar. 17, 2011 from @http://www.edutopia.org/linda-darling-hammond-social-emotional-video