Constructivism in Practice

This week we focused on Constructionist and Constructivist learning theories. Dr. Orey explains these and makes emphasis on Constructionisim saying “this one is most important for teachers.” He explains the Mechanisms for learning as Assimilation, Accommodation, Equilibration and Schema. These go from students new experiences, to accommodating it to their prior knowledge and balance it.
On chapter 11, Generating and Test Hypothesis, it was interesting to read how Spreadsheets are used by students. I agree with the following quote from this chapter “Simulation software also can provide incredibly engaging learning environments, resulting in increased motivation and retention in learning.” It seems that as students get involved, collaborate and accommodate their new skills, they learn better and retain the information.

Technology and Cognitive tools

This week’s resources and instructional DVD’s helped me understand about different ways to present the learning material to students. It was interesting to listen to Dr. Orey say teachers should present the material “using senses”, also using “informational images.” I like the idea of making them as real as possible, through power points, virtual field trips, pictures, or using any other resources available.

Chapters four and six of the book were very interesting. They present different ways to organize and summarize using word processing and other applications. It should help students’ process information, and organize their main ideas. These chapters also offer visual examples and class situations. All of these relate to cognitive learning because using a variety of methods will target different learning styles and make long time memories. I am truly learning and enjoying the material from the Web resources provided in the class book.

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Behaviorism in Practice

Reinforcing effort is an excellent strategy. I use it with all students because it motivates them to keep on trying and do their best. Sometimes I write Spanish praising phrases on their graded papers and they get excited. I agree with Dr. Orey when he said reinforcement is the “most powerful” of the operant conditioning.
I use homework to reinforce what students learn in class. I teach Spanish and understand it is not something parents, siblings, or many friends may help with at home. At the beginning of each nine weeks I give each student a homework sheet that I stamp. Students must show me their homework at the door where I stamp it and review quickly. Every five stamps is a grade. After I stamp it at the door for effort and completion, we go over it as a class, and then I stamp their sheet. It is a lot of work for me, but great for students because they keep track of their grades and at the same time they put some effort on the homework.

Bridging Leaning Theory, Instruction, and Technology

Welcome to this blog. This is a new class and learning experience for me. I am excited to see what new skills I will learn and apply in the classroom. Working with technology has been challenging at times, but positive and effective. Good luck to all my classmates who are part of my success.

Reflection

This course has helped me develop confidence in technology skills through readings, viewing and practice. I have been exposed and able to use tools as blogs, wikis and podcasts that I had never used before. They were probably not hard for people that had used them before, but for me a "Digital immigrant" it was a challenge. I am so excited about what I learned that I am eager to learn more.
I have the assurance that these are positive learning skills that my students may use not only in school, but in their daily lives and future. It is also a great feeling that I know where to look for help and information when needed. Some good resources with examples used in this course were http://www.youtube.com/ and http://www.commoncraft.com/. These helped not only with explanations, but with visuals.
I feel comfortable getting my students started on a lesson and from there watch them learn, create and evolve using their thinking skills and collaboration.
I may continue expanding my knowledge by searching, practicing, working with colleagues, reading, attending professional developments in my district, and continue using the skills that I have learned. This will allow me to pass this information to my students and also allow them to be successful.
Two goals for transforming my classroom environment will be the use of blogs and podcasts. I know these are not yet seen as “students safe” practices, but I am planning on involving parents and students so it will be a learning experience for all.
The teaching career has many challenges and in the best interest of all students my job is to keep my students in a safe and positive learning environment. I will use technology wisely keeping in mind that their success is my success.

Podcasting, what an experience!

I have successfully completed my first Podcast. It was a real challenge for me! After reading, searching, watching videos and downloading an incredible number of information, I believe now I can talk about Podcasting. It is not hard, but I guess I was doing more than I had to. It is not perfect because I still have a lot to learn, but it is a start.
Podcasting should be an interesting tool to use in the classroom as to keep students updated about class and school, but also with pronunciation, grammar and vocabulary (since I teach a foreign language).
I am grateful of learning about technology because I will pass this information to my students, friends and family who have not been exposed to this.
I would like to invite you to listen to my podcast and hear about what and how much technology some young children use these days.

http://pedroza.podomatic.com

Evaluating 21st Century Skills

After reading and looking through the web site the Partnership for 21st Century Skills, it sounds like a great organization dedicated to involve the community and society to have a better vision of the future for all children. By doing this they will create life-long learners and people that is well prepared in the workplace.
I had never heard about it, and was surprised by all the organizations that support it. Again, it sounds like a community working together on a good cause. As a contemporary educator I need to get more informed and use the resources available to help my students develop learning skills and to succeed.