Module
6 – Blog Post Discussion
What
is your philosophy of learning?
My approach to learning is the constructivism theory
of learning. Driscoll (2005) emphasizes that the constructivist learning is
when students actively engage in using problem-solving and their
critical-thinking skills (p. 387). Students construct their own knowledge by
testing ideas, using their creativity, and use of their prior knowledge. The
learning is relevant and relative to their real life situations. For example,
students’ cultural and socio-economic background, their values, beliefs,
motivation, and their expectations increase their learning. Students take their
prior knowledge and apply this knowledge to a new experience. This gives
students a better understanding on how learning takes place online and in a
traditional classroom environment.
What
do you believe is critical and non-negotiable in teaching and learning?
In this 21st century, technology is critical and
non-negotiable in teaching and learning. The proper implementation and use of
technologies allows teachers and students opportunities to display their
creativity in learning and use of their cognitive skills.
Semple (2000) argues that there is a gap between
learning, teaching, and educational technologies and what happens in our
schools. She states that teachers teach through their own perceptions which are
teacher-centered strategies and not student-centered methods. Kinnaman (1995)
reveals that in order to close the gap between education and school practices,
we must be willing to reorganize schools by becoming more technology driven.
Despite the implementation of new technologies, teachers should have a profound
knowledge of the various learning theories, an understanding of his/her
students, competence in using and applying educational technologies, which will
create effective learning environments. For this to happen, teachers must be
given opportunities to take preservice training and that schools have available
on-going professional development for preparing teachers to meet the needs of
our students.
References
Driscoll, M. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.
Semple, A. (2000, September). Learning theories and their influence on the development and use of educational technologies, Australian Science Teachers Journal, 46(3), 21-29.
Michele
http://temekashingles.tumblr.com/
Karen Wondergem
http://wondergemprinciplesofdistanceed.blogspot.com
Michelle,
ReplyDeleteYou are correct in stating that pre-service teachers need the opportunity to receive training, and on-going professional development needs to take place. However, the mindset of experienced teachers needs to change toward technology. Often times, professional development is offered but experienced teachers do not see the need for them to acquire this new knowledge. They are simply fine with the resources they current use to instruct their students.
Nadine,
ReplyDeleteAs a constructivist, what are some strategies that you could implement in order to change the attitudes of experienced teachers?
Michele
Michele
ReplyDeleteI agree with your views about pre-service training for teachers. However, they may enter the workshops but return with the same mindset.