Please click on the Mind Map to link to the full-size version posted on my Wiki.
Module V
The Static-Dynamic Continumm
After reflecting on both the course content, and my philosophy of distance education, which follows the constructivist model (which involves facilitation of cognitive and skills development with the aid of multimedia) I believe that I now am capable of utilizing the tools necessary to incorporate and implement technologies in my classroom.
Presently, I have been compiling artifacts of lessons, and that of peers to include in my portfolio, while also documenting professional development I am facilitating utilizing technology. Collaborating with colleagues on interdisciplinary lessons that integrate technology is also part of the process.
Knowledge, Expectations, and Challenges
The technologies explored over the duration of this course have not only allowed for succinct understanding, knowledge of, and access to an abundance of resources, but have also provided the elements that make for quality online instruction. As online enrollment is expected to grow as much as 25% per year, ...the central challenge to the nation is how to engage communities to make education “an ordinary part of life.”(Bourne & Moore, 2005)
Moving Toward Dynamic
To assist in the momentum of the process of moving from static to the dynamic end of the continumm, I have proposed to the administration at school, and have been given the “green light” to train faculty (and administration) in the use of both Smartboard and Mimio technologies. Within the ensuing school term, hopefully use of Web 2.0 tools Elluminate and Skype will be on the agenda for incorporation with High School curriculum. Students would be able to access discussion forums, chat rooms, read and respond to works of literature, and pose questions; all which will further develop their analytical, reasoning, and critical thinking skills. The use of tools that support specific activities (e.g., discussion boards, podcasting, blogs) are essential when choosing appropriate technologies. (Wenger, White, et.al. 2005)
Incorporating the use of multimedia tools and the principles by which they are guided are essential to providing effective online instruction. (Anderson, 2008) It is crucial not only to the education and success of our students that we infuse new and emerging technologies into the curriculum, but is also essential to the growth and success of our nation as we complete in an ever-evolving, “digitized” society.
Anderson, T. (2008). Towards a theory of online learning. In T. Anderson (Ed.), The theory and practice of online learning (2nd ed., pp. 45–74). Edmonton, AB: Athabasca University Press.
Wenger, E., White, N., Smith, J. D., & Rowe, K. (2005, January 18). Technology for communities. CEFRIO Book. Retrieved from http://technologyforcommunities.com/CEFRIO_Book_Chapter_v_5.2.pdf
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Hi Karen
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome opportunity to train your peers and colleagues on the use of these new technologies! The process is so much easier when you have administrative support and those willing to embrace the use of something new to make the learning experience better for students and themselves.
Karen
ReplyDeleteYour mind map was awesome! It sounds as though you are well on your way to becoming the "go to" person in your district. I am a little jealous that you have the smartboard and mimio technologies available and many staff members do not know how to use them. What a wonderful opportunity and experience to be able to get new technologies underway. Your district also sounds quite welcoming when it comes to new technologies being implemented.
Yes Wandra, having leadership as a potential "change agent" is in itself awesome. I am now much more motivated now that I have something I really love to do,and if possible would do it for free! I have finally found my niche!
ReplyDeleteJane, thank you, and I am still somewhat of a novice with Mimio technology. I, the library media specialist, and the TST for our school are meeting and learning it together. We are in the process of setting up a schedule for trainng interested faculty. Lot of work ahead, but I look forward to it.
ReplyDeleteKaren your mind map is awesome. I didn't even think to use PowerPoint for this. It's really nice!
ReplyDeletethank you Wandra, took forever to edit it so it would display on this blog. Learning so much about technolgies is certainly an ongoing process.
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