Reflection

Step 1:

Before this course I had a brief understanding of how learning theories impacted how teachers can impact their students.  At the beginning of the course I stated that my preferred learning theory if social-constructionism.  I still stand firm in that analysis; however, this course has broadened my understanding of the theory.  For example, learning more about the cognitive learning theory fostered an understanding of how the brain works.  This understanding makes me more aware of how to build connections while teaching students.  Technology is important no matter what the learning theory; however, using technology creates a dynamic learning environment. 

Step 2:

Seeing that I am from a technology rich background and that my students use technology daily, my repertoire of instructional skills didn’t increase much.  There are not any immediate plans I plan to make to my instruction.  Perhaps in the long-term changes will be made to the production system.  What I did learn was how to in cooperate technology more seamless within my classroom.  Two technology tools I plan to use in my classroom are concept maps and VoiceThread.  Concept maps will allow students to build connections and see how the various parts of news packages relate to each other.  VoiceThread will become a great place for students to give feedback on student work. 

Step 3:

The first long-term goal I have is to integrate a VoiceThread system to allow students to give immediate feedback to their classmates.  I do not plan on implementing this process this year; however, next year I will.  I will have students create an account on VoiceThread and Vimeo.  Then students can upload all work on to Vimeo and link them to their VoiceThread.  Students will be required to comment on 3 classmates’ work each week along with posting their own. 

The second long-term goal is to flip my classroom more.  I will use my school website to post links to videos or articles I want my students to read or view.  This will open discussion within the classroom.