Welcome to our classroom’s blog! This blog is for all community members that want more information regarding our PTA’s fundraising efforts. This year, the PTA is starting to help with fundraising efforts for more computers and technology in the classrooms. As we know, there are plenty of questions and concerns regarding this topic of technology. As the teacher, I want to use this blog as a tool to educate parents, caregivers, and community members and to address questions and concerns. Our blog allows us to have friendly conversations regarding the newest efforts brought from our PTA.
Welcome and Thanks for stopping by!
I have had several emails with questions regarding our PTA’s fundraiser. I am fully committed to support our parents that have concerns about technology use in the classroom. According to the district, part of their mission statement is to provide students with highly innovated learning environments both at home and in school, and to give all students access to technology resources. We have the opportunity and the task to utilize research-based, technology-enabled practices to inspire the imagination of our students. I seek to create a learning environment that promotes differentiated instruction through the use of technology.
Theories
After doing some research, there are two learning theories that “help teachers and students meet the many and varied requirements of learning in today’s Information Age society” (Roblyer & Doering, pg. 34, 2009).
The first theory is the Directed Learning Theory, which stems from the Behaviorist Theory, Information-Processing Theory, and the Cognitive-Behavioral Theory. According to Roblyer & Doering, learning is fostered by using a system of instruction based on behaviorist information processing, and cognitive behaviorist theories (pg. 35, 2009). With this said, Directed Learning occurs in a traditional learning environment through teacher directed student learning. The main outcome for students is specific level of Mastery achieved. For further information check out these websites:
1. selfdirectedlearning.com
2. jefflindsay.com
The second theory is the Constructivist Learning theory. This theory was established by using several different theories including in social activism, scaffolding, stages of development, and multiple intelligences theories. According to Roblyer & Doering, learning occurs when one constructs both mechanisms for learning and one’s own unique version of the knowledge, colored by background, experiences, and aptitudes (pg. 35, 2009). With this said, Constructivist Learning theory occurs in an interactive learning environment and teacher assists students’ learning through meaningful activities and lessons. The main outcome for students is the idea that goals varied per student and certain skills are developed. For further information check out these websites:
1. funderstanding.com
2. thirteen.org
PTA for what?
Every teacher in our school has a wish list that they have given to the PTA. I have asked the PTA for an IPod Station, which includes 36 Ipod Touches, a MacBook and charging cart. This is relevant to several of my lessons. I want my students to practice their reading skills by using the Ipod Touches. For example, after we read our weekly language arts story, I would like my students to record themselves by using the Ipod Touches, to practice their reading skills individually. Once the students have read and recorded the story, the students’ will “grade” themselves on their own reading level. After this is complete, the students will re-record the story to make improvements.
Technology and Theories
Based on my Ipod Touch Lesson plan, I would use a Directed Learning Theory method to demonstrate to my class how to use the new technology. Directed Learning should be used when “students need to acquire skills as quickly and efficiently as possible” (Roblyer & Doering, pg. 36, 2009). This method will work great because this will be a whole group lesson and students need to follow my presentation into order to get trained on how to use the Ipod Touches.
Based on my Bibliography project for my students, Constructivist Theory is the best approach for this activity. This project has several activities that the students need to complete. I want my class to be interactive with working on this project in class. I have students that can assist by working with the students that need help. This theory is the best approach because I want to encourage collaboration and allow for students to learn in an alternative ways other than the traditional setting.
Closing
I hope that I have answered your questions or concerns regarding technology in our classroom. I understand that all of the new and innovating technology that our world can offer, can seem overwhelming. However, we need you parents! We need your support because we can all make a difference by educating our students through technology. Let’s support our PTA and our classrooms by working together! If you have any other questions, comments, concerns, please feel free to post on our blog or email me. Thanks, again!
Ms. Cruz
Reference
Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2009). Integrating educational technology into teaching + Myeducationlab. Allyn & Bacon.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is an assignment for an educational technology course at National University. It is not a real fundraising blog.
