EDLD 5364 WEEK 4 BLOG

This week’s readings taught me about aspects associated with visual learning tools. In this new age of technology students are looking at videos and pictures to learn. This new way of learning keeps students engaged and excited about learning.  For students who are shy, videos may be the perfect way to keep their interest while learning about them. This could also be the “push” they need to enhance their social skills. There are a number of photo and video website resources educators can use in the classroom such as YouTube and Flickr.

Cooperative learning was another big topic in the readings. Cooperative learning allows students to work and learn in groups. The groups should be small in size as well as formed based on group members learning level. For the cooperative group to be successful they must be comprised of areas such as variety, small size, and appropriate classroom structure. Base groups are long term groups, meaning students are in these groups for a semester. There are vast computer software and multimedia outlets to assist with cooperative learning. The creating of group website is also a wonderful tool to enhance the co-op learning experience. Ideas, calendars, work, and other aspects can be shared on their websites.

Students should be given separate tests to test the knowledge of that particular student. The UDL’s are designed to administer tests and objectives to meet certain student’s needs, goals, and abilities.

The videos were very influential and gave great information about this week’s content.  It is important to educate the entire child. Social and emotional learning are critical components for our students.  The teachers’ role in this aspect is very important, the teachers will learn about themselves through the process.  Teachers’ help students develop and build upon these components. School design is also important for incorporating good social and communication skills can be built. Smaller environments are easier for social and emotional skills to be developed.  Project based learning is key to help students develop these skills. They challenge students and have students come together in groups to solve problems. It is very interactive and relative for students.

Project based learning allows students to work throughout the semester on a particular subject. Students were in groups and did hands on research to develop their knowledge on the subject.  Students said they enjoyed learning more when they were outside the classroom in their subject area of study. Students become managers of their own learning through project based learning.

With only pencil and paper only certain types of students will succeed. When technology is introduced into the classroom students can find their special type of learning with technology source and be encouraged to learn. Through learning with technology, students become teachers to those lacking certain technological knowledge.

High Tech High is very influential blending technology with learning. Students can only play computer games if they make the game! Students work on 1 project in two classes. They learn about cells and blood, create a picture of their findings, and then present their ideas to the class. The students’ work is posted in the school website, so not only the student can see their work but teachers can see their work as well as what they have learned throughout the school year.