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 * Week One - Knowledge Learned **

Week One was a little confusing and interesting. In addition to reading the material for the week, I participated in the synchronous web conference. AdobeConnect experienced audio problems, and as a result most of the conference resorted to typing. Although I was a little frustrated because of problems with the audio, I did gain a better understanding of what would be needed to complete the group project.

We learned about three theories that are relative to teaching with technology: constructivism, connectivism and cyborg. Constructivism is a theory of learning, but it does not dictate how that theory should be translated into classroom practice. It is up to teachers and other educators to provide environments that support the ways students learn--learner-centered classrooms (Southwest Education Development Laboratory, 1999). In a constructivist classroom, students are more actively involved and it appears they are in a better position to utilize their critical thinking skills.

The quote that caught my attention came from Learning Learners combine experience (action) and thought (reflection) to build meaning. Both parts must be present to support the creation of new knowledge. The authors go on to state that the more opportunities we have and the more actively engaged we are, the richer our understanding becomes. This quote reminded me of substitute teaching a group of gifted and talented second grade students. In this class, the students were learner-centered. In fact the teacher would only present the material on a Promethian Board and the students would work together in groups of four students brainstorming strategies of the approach they should take to solve a math problem, or answer a question. The authors further state that when students are put in charge of their projects, the teacher has increased the likelihood that the students will connect with the curriculum. In addition it forces the student to make connections and build on his or her individual understanding (Southwest Education Development Laboratory, 1999).

Reference

Pitler, H; Hubbell, E. R.; Kuhn, M.; & Malenoski, K. (2007) Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA. Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development.

Southwest Educational Development Laboratory (1999). Learning as a personal event: A brief introduction to constructivism. Retrieved on March 4, 2012 from []