EDLD+5364+-Week+1+Reflection

This is the first week for EDLD 5364 - Teaching with Technology. I was introduced to new vocabulary and was able to get a better understanding of the constructivist theory, connectivism, and cyborg theory. These theories explain how new information is introduced, understood, and gathered by humans due to prior knowledge and individual learning skills.

The constructivist theory is the one I prefer because it is a student-centered classroom where students interact with peers, collaborate with teams and individuals, and get immediate feedback. The students are allowed to work independently in groups and select team members and leaders. The students are allowed to work together to manage and control their own learning. It allows for higher and critical thinking for the students. I personally think when students are able to work with peers or use their own personal events and stories; the lessons are more meaningful.

It has been proven that when technology is used and applied effectively in classrooms, it can affect the student’s leaning and motivation to want to learn new skills. It can also encourage students to want to learn and apply the new content, material, and skills in their everyday lives.

This week has enlightened me on loads of new ideas and the importance of using technology in the classroom. School districts have to provide and allow access to the internet as well as social networking for teachers and students to learn collaboratively. It is very essential for educators to start preparing for the 21st Century learners.

References

Southwest Educational Development Laboratory, (1999). //Learning as personal event: A brief introduction to Constructivism//. Retrieved March 1, 2012 from []

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., and Malenoski, K (2007). //Using technology with classroom instruction that works//. Alexander, VA: Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Introduction, 1-14.

Team Google Doc []

Team Google Site []