Reflective Synopsis by Toni Lyons

Over the past six weeks I have had the opportunity to engage with many Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). By blogging my learning journey I have been able to explore and analysis these tools and the role they can provide to enhance learning. I have gained an understanding of the significance of applying appropriate instructional strategies when integrating a learning tool into a lesson. The Digital School Collection (2010) believes when technology integration is a key mechanism for augmenting classroom instruction while helping students learn lifelong communication skills for the digital age. In this digital age where many of our learners will be considered 'digital natives', it is indispensable that teachers and schools support and provide technologies into the classroom environment. Teachers who have brought technology into their classroom are aware that it provides an opportunity to differentiate instruction, changing their classroom into a dynamic learning environment (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). Below I have highlighted four tools that I believe when used in conjunction with appropriate pedagogy and content will enhance learning, thus generating higher order thinking skills. Each of the following tools has been used for a different learning purpose and I have drew on such frameworks as Dimensions on Learning, Blooms Taxonomy and the Big Six to further enhance cognitive thinking.

Digital Tool 1- Web Quest

In considering the best possible way for students to engage and access information I feel a web quest provides this in a clever and interesting way. I contemplated the implementation of a Learning Management System as a way to scaffold a learning journey and access information, but in order to effectively engage the young cohort I believe this is more suitable. Chris (2010) explains, 'a web quest effectively engages students, as they are challenged to complete certain objectives. These tools are designed to use learners' time well, to focus on using information rather then looking for it, and to support learners levels of thinking at the levels of analysis, synthesis and evaluation (Education Queensland, 2007). If used appropriately a web quest can scaffold a learning journey that parallels with the cognitive thinking of Blooms Taxonomy, thus making way for higher order thinking. The initial tasks should consist of 'hooks' or activities were learners are encouraged to ask further questions. At this time rich resources should be used so students gain further knowledge. Prompting peer discussions and role playing at the next stage could further comprehend students' knowledge. After these knowledge's are established, offering graphic organisers such as PMI or SWOT analysis (Frangenhiem, 2006) would help learners' to analysis and synthesis information. The evaluation could consist of using another learning tool to present information. It is essential that all resources are expertly picked providing rich learning material for all student needs. A range of activities should be provided catering for all styles of learning. A clear task must be set so learners are aware of their learning goals. Marzano & Pickering (2006, pg. 35) explain that teachers should teach and communicate clearly to the students exactly what they are supposed to be learning as a result of the task. To provide clear goals to learners' a rubrics table could be used with achievements for each learning task.


This inquiry based learning tool facilitates for a wide range of learners', catering for their individual needs and interest, and allows students' to learn at their own pace. Marzano & Pickering (2006, pg. 32) explain students are more likely to perceive tasks as valuable if the tasks somehow relate to their interest and goals. The versatile web quest also allows learners to work as individuals, in small groups, or as a class. Working through a web quest in small groups will provide a collaborative learning environment. There are many opportunities to use web quests in the classroom, they tie in well with sose and science subjects, where an open ended question can strike interesting ideas. In the future I will look to incorporate web quests into instructional practices, as i strongly believe when scaffolded in a concise way this learning object can enrich learning.

Digital Tool 2- Concept Mapping

Concept mapping is a valuable tool which enables learners' to brainstorm ideas and consider new opinions. Fisher (2005) says, 'concept mapping is one way we can try to make a visual conceptual structure, not to simply see what it is, but to process it, challenge it and extend it'. I explored bubbl.us and mind map which were simple and easy to navigate. When initally engaging with these tools, I prefered the 'old school' way of brainstorming on a piece of butchers paper, but after online conversations with nick, he extended my thinking, suggesting once new knowledge is opptained you have the opportunity to edit. I believe this would help students continue their thinking and encourage collaborative conversations in the classroom.The advantage of using digital technology when implementing this simple brainstorming task is the immediate engagement students' have with the technologies. Because it is visually pleasing and clear to read, learners can clarify their thinking. Marzano and Pickering (2006, pg. 61) explain graphic organisers help students to look for patterns, emphasising these patterns help learners to sort through and understand stimuli. These online graphic organiser help to gain and keep students' attention while organising their ideas.

Digital Tool 3- Digital Video

Creating a digital video is a fun and interesting way to enhance learning. When used with productive pedagogy, cognitive thinking is challenged. In order to effectively achieve higher order thinking, an appropriate a well scaffolded task has to be developed, with the right content. A storyboard is a great way to develop higher order thinking. Emary (2005) has developed a well scaffolded learning journey for year five students. This links well to the Big Six theory, each task has been set with the next learning stage in mind. This will help children engage with and understand the content of the task. This journey has a number of learning objectives teaching students to engage with different mediums, looks at the importance of recalling and sequencing order, offers experience with editing and modifying, looks at the skills of telling a story and explores the creativity of design (Emary, 2005). These reasons clearly demonstrate the learning that can take place when using digital technology with clever pedagogy. Digital movies can enhance a learners' thinking and creativity, whilst giving them the opportunity to explore the technology. Education Queensland have noticed the creativity and skills of students, introducing a Smart Classrooms Film Fest competition that offers schools great digital prizes. Incentives like this motivate students to further participate in the use of digital technology.

Digital Tool 4- Blogging



Blogging can be a excellent learning tool for students to scaffold and direct their own learning journey. If students are given a quality task which is clear and easy to understand they can being creating their own knowledge's. Through an online conversations with Nick I realised that young learners are capable of using these networking tools. I initially dismissed lower primary students from having the skills to use a blog or wiki. Henderson (2010) explains, 'All effective online learning projects depend on the quality of the problems which students' must address, with so much information on the internet students' can get lost. Providing the appropriate online task for a student of any age, can lead to a successful learning experience. Henderson (2010) recommends students' should be giving a clear beacon by which they can always navigate back to the task. In our information society, learners' need to be strategically guided to ensure the highest quality knowledge is obtained. A rubric could be used to help students clarify and understand their goals and what is expected of them. Marzano & Pickering (2006, pg. 315) say rubics help students self-assess, self-correct, and be more self reliant. Blogging also allows followers to comment on posts, initiating collaborative conversations. When used appropriately blogging can act as a collaborative and reflective tool, though I strongly recommend learners' are aware of the safety factors when posting their work online.



It is essential when implementing blogging experiences that learners have a good understanding of the capabilities of technology. By this I am referring to the large amount of people that can access information students' are broadcasting. This issue is as important outside of the classroom, as it is in the classroom. Although teachers can create safe and private environments for implementing these tasks, I strongly believe students' need to be taught the risks involved when posting certain information. These students' are' digital natives', but online common sense needs taught sometimes. These are the negative aspects that have to be addressed. On the positive side, a classroom blogging environment can consist of many constructive characteristics such as, expression, peer support, successful class dynamics, risk taking and sharing. Farmer (2004) recognises personal online publishing allows for a revolutionary form of expression and exploration between learners in the same class and the rest of the world.

Summary


At the beginning of this course I was apprehensive about blogging and because I considered myself to be 'technically illiterate' I lacked the knowledge, skills and confidence to immerses with these technologies. After researching the 21st century learners' and the future of technology and its benefits in the classroom, I realised that I was going to have to become brave and begin my own learning journey with technology. I can now happily say I am not scared to try new things and now consider myself 'computer literate'. The other day I shared my new found knowledge with a friend in an expert and professional way. The benefits of using ICT's in the classroom with appropriate pedagogy are endless. Applied effectively, technology implementation not only increases student learning, understanding and achievement, but encourages motivation to learn and supports cognitive development and problem solving skills (Schacter & Fagnano, 1999 cited in Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenski, 2007). This course has shown me that is is not the learning tool that provides the learning, but rather the appropriate instructional strategies used in conjunction with the learning tool. In the future I will be implementing learning tools to support and enhance learning whenever possible. It is essential for the 21st century students to be given the opportunity to comprehend, apply, analysis, synthesis, evaluate and create knowledge using ICTs.

Reference

Education Queensland. (2007). The learning Place: Web Quest Resources. Retrieved August 22, 2010, from, http://www.learningplace.com.au/deliver/content.asp?pid=17845



Farmer, J. (2004). Incorporated Subversion: James Farmer's online education weblog. Retrieved August 24, 2010, from, http://radio-weblogs.com/0120501/2004/04/05.html


Fisher, R. (2005). Teaching children to learn (2nd ed.). Cheltenham, United Kingdom: Nelson Thornes Ltd.


Frangenheim, E. (2006). Reflections on classroom thinking strategies (9th ed.). New South Wales, Australia: Robin Education Publishing.



Henderson, M. (2006). Planning for Intergrating Online Learning. School of Education: James Cook University. Retrieved August 24, 2010, from, http://education.qld.gov.au/learningplace/stories/articles/quick98-henderson.pdf


Marzano, R.J., & Pickering, D.J. (2006). Dimensions of Learning: Teachers Manual (2nd ed.). Heatherton, NSW: Hawker Brownlow Education.


Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandia, Virginia, USA: ASCD Publications.



Online Collaboration

http://s0175690.blogspot.com/2010/08/webquests.html

http://toni-e-learning.blogspot.com/2010/08/digital-tool-3-concept-mapping-i-used.html#comments

http://toni-e-learning.blogspot.com/2010/08/digital-tool-3-creating-wiki-after.html?showComment

Digital Tool 14- Digital Video

Using digital video in the classroom can enhance learning and create opportunities for higher order thinking. Having prior experience with imovie on a mac computer, I can understand the great functions that digital video offers. Within the class there are many ways this tool can be used to further engage learners. A storyboard activity would allow for deeper understanding using creativity and teaching learners about the chronological order. Students could create a visual and audio dictionary of their spelling words for that week. Analysing each word and constructing a visual representation of its meaning would use higher order thinking skills. Digital video could also be used as an introduction for a unit, students could add ideas and draw on the initial introduction, demonstrating their new knowledge and critical thinking skills. It could also be used in a group environment where roles are delegated, making way for co-operative, collaborative environment. Learning mangers could create a digital portfolio or create a DVD at the end of the term, documenting the terms activities.

I used windows DVD maker to create this quick visual presentation on the change of technology. This program is simple to understand and students could easily navigate the functions of this program. Due to technical malfunction I will post the video another way.

Digital Tool 13- Web Quests



A web-quests is an inquiry based learning tool that provides learners' with a range of activities and resources based around a particular topic or question. Learners are scaffolded through a learning journey that helps them to define, analysis and evaluate knowledge. If used correctly a web quest can provide a rich learning and collaborative experience for learners. In the future I will look to provide learners with the opportunity to learn through a web quest.

Digital Tool 12- Scribble Maps

Whilst exploring scribble maps i was very engaged and surprised on the features offered on the learning tool. Scribble maps allows users to place text, draw shapes, place markers, custom widgets, export to google earth, save in various files, export to my maps and print. This tool would give learners an opportunity to explore many geographical and mathematical matters in an authentic way. It also links well with other curriculum requirements. If learners can relate to the task at hand they are more willing to think of solutions and offer ideas relating to the issue. If used appropriately this tool could certainly evoke higher order thinking in the classroom.

Digital Tool 12- Podcasting

I used podOmatic to create my podcast. The procedure was simple and user friendly, even though i did not enjoy hearing the sound of my own voice ( do I really sound like that:). Within the classroom this tool would cater for many diverse learners and personalities. It would help esl learners gain confidence and allow for self evaluation and constructive criticism. It would also be suitable for speech and language impairment, having the opportunity to correct mistakes and releasing the pressure of performing to an audience. As well as having the benefit of catering for diverse learners, podcasting also acts as an engaging and useful tool for all learners. It can be embedded into pedagogy through interviews, storytelling, radio broadcasting, reflection activities, following instructions and training, literacy skills, pronouncation and oral presentations. In the future I will look to embed this tool into to cater for learners needs. Underneath is my attempt to podcast.

Hi everyone, I posted a new episode to my podcast, Toni lyons Podcast. Please click the link below to view it. http://s0175535.podomatic.com/entry/2010-08-25T03_37_43-07_00 See you there! - Toni

Digital Tool 11- Zero Carbon Footprint

After exploring a various number of learning tools to enhance learning for my sose assignment, I came across this child friendly and inviting website. Zero Carbon Footprint lets students explore their carbon footprint in the world. The website explains each section with literacy suitable for children so it is easy for learners to develop an understanding of this environmental issue. With bright, colourful and simple graphics this website is inviting and easy to navigate around. In a sose or science unit I would definitely consider using this tool in my classroom.

21st Century Education in New Brunswick, Canada

Digital Tool 10- You Tube

You Tube is an integral part of the internet culture. It allows internet users to upload and share their videos with a worldwide audience. Within a classroom You Tube can provide thought provoking and valuable stimuli related to almost every subject. It also gives learners the opportunity to create and upload their own videos. I uploaded this You Tube video as it really ties in well with this course. This is a fantastic example of the fabulous resources available on You Tube.

Digital Tool 9 - Images

Using images and photographs in the classroom can be a powerful learning tool that provokes creativity, emotion, imagination and a deeper understanding. Within the classroom images can play many roles from 'hooking' the students as an original text, to storytelling, to extracting and interpreting meaning. Choosing the appropriate image to integrate into the lesson is essential for to further students thinking. When choosing an image, all learners beliefs and backgrounds must be taken into consideration and respected, ensuring it is a positive and enlightening experience for all learners. I used flickr to download the picture above. Flickr was easy to navigate around and finding quality pictures was fairly easy. A negative aspect of using flickr is that it is not suitable for students to freely explore, as some of the pictures are inappropriate. In the future I will definitely use images and photographs to enhance learning and evoke meaning.

Digital Tool 8- Google Earth

Google Earth is an engaging tool for both adults and children. Having used Google Earth prior to this course I initially found it very fascinating, but also a little scary. Being able to see my car clearly from the street view vision and knowing this information is available worldwide is a clear awakening of the development of technology. Thinking about this further and also getting a little off track, I also find it amazing that these street views and information are available to everybody, anywhere, anytime. If this information is accessible to so called 'normal' people, imagine what is available to people in higher power. Within a classroom context Google Earth can be cleverly integrated into lessons to further engage learners. Topics such as architecture, real estate, construction, engineering, astronomy, oceanography, agriculture, planning and mathematics can use Google Earth to enhance learning, relating the topics to a real world scenario.

Google Earth has many valuable functions, it allows users to tour the world, look at historical imagery, use navigational control and allows for tilting and viewing of hilly terrains. I will definitely incorporate Google Earth into my classroom in the future. With the appropriate pedagogy this tool gives students an insightful and authentic way of looking at the world. Integrating these worldly learning opportunities, will allow learners to see the 'bigger picture' furthering their knowledge and ways of thinking.

Digital Tool 7- Learning Management Systems (LMS)



Learning Management Systems (LMS) is a software package that enables the management of resources and learning content to students. Most LMS systems are web based allow users to access the systems anywhere, anytime. The most comprehensive LMS systems will allow skill- gap analysis, planning, certifications, virtual live classrooms and resource allocation. Most LMS systems permit learners self service, facilitating for access to course and self enrolment ( Network Dictionary, 2004-2010). Having experience with LMS systems using blackboard and moodle I can see the extreme benefits and functionality of the system. At first it may seem a little daunting to navigate around, but with little time the LMS system caters for learners and administrative demands twenty four hours a day. This clever system offers students assessment calenders, course content and profiles, student forums allowing for a collaborative online classroom environments and many other opportunities. One negative aspect to this system could be the extensive information provided. As a online source I personally find it daunting to read pages and pages of writing online and much prefer if the text is on paper.

Within the classroom the LMS system would facilitate for a professional and informative online classroom. Offering communication between the many stakeholders involved the LMS system would offer resources, a collaborative environment, learning support, calenders, upcoming events, core learning content and contact information. In the future I will be incorporating this system into my classroom as i think it is essential for the 21st century learner.

Network Dictionary. (2004-2010). Computer progamming and software term; Glossary and Dictionary. Retreived August 24, 2010, from http://www.networkdictionary.com/software/l.phphttp://www.networkdictionary.com/software/l.php

Digital Tool 6 - PREZI

Prezi is a different and innovative way to display information. The presentation of a Prezi looks very creative and professional, looking at a topic in a unique way. Exploring Prezi and creating my own I found a little frustrating. Perhaps having no prior experience with the tool made it harder to navigate around. With more experience it may not be as difficult to direct. I could not find a way of linking my Prezi to my blog. Unfortunately it costs money to permanently set up

a Prezi account. Within the classroom it would be suitable for the upper primary grades or the technology savvy students. If I had greater knowledge and experience of this tool I would consider using it in the classroom.

Digital Tool 5- PowerPoint

Having had prior experience using PowerPoint with work and throughout uni, it was interesting to further explore this powerful learning tool. When used with appropriate pedagogy this can be an extremely useful learning tool, enhancing learning, whilst catering for a number of learning styles. Its simple and professional approach makes it suitable for many ages and abilities, and also for many different learning scenarios. Within the classroom it may be used as an assessment task, where learners will be challenged with the extra features they can explore and add. On the negative side if a power point presentation is not used correctly, the technology may just be hiding a chalk and talk scenario, restricting students quest for higher order thinking.

In the future i will look to incorporate this technology into my classroom using appropriate pedagogy. Below is a PMI chart that shows the positives of using PowerPoint. Jones. A., (2003). The use and abuse of PowerPoint in teaching and learning in the Life Sciences; A personal Overview. Bioscience Education. Retrieved August 18, 2010, from http://www.bioscience.heacademy.ac.uk/journal/vol2/beej-2-3.aspx

SWOT Analysis for Digital Tool 4 - Weebly

Comparing the Big Six and the Engagement Theory using a Venn diagram

Digital Tool 4 - Exploring websites in the classroom- Weebly

I explored Weebly and its practicality in the classroom. I found this simple website easy to navigate and to sign up to. It offers a variety of page layouts and templates, and is appropriate for students of all ages. It would be great to use as a classroom website, and the secure and monitored environment would ensure students safety. On the negative side it does not provide the ability to support java scripts, limiting the array of tools. It also does not allow the editing of HTML code directly. These weaknesses may limit the creativity and exploration of a variety of tools. As an opportunity this would be the perfect introduction to a classroom website. In the future I will definitely consider using this website. When exploring Weebly I created this basic website http://thesmartclassroom.weebly.com/

Digital Tool 3 - Creating a wiki

After exploring wikis I believe they could either act as a help or a hindrance to a child's learning. The freedom of the wiki allows any person to be able to post their thoughts and knowledge at anytime of day. This could act as an extremely positive influence in an collaborative learning environment if the correct knowledge is being used. Alternatively knowledge and ideas may be unrealistic or nonfactual which may hinder the learning environment. The widespread access to an individuals questions and ideas can draw many points of view and knowledge, broadening the learners vision to the question or ideas. This would be a valuable tool for the upper primary if used correctly, prehaps in a teacher minitored environment where information can be checked.

I used wikispaces to create my wiki. I decided to explore the question; Blogs vs Wikis- for an educational use. Feel free to express your ideas or any information you have found relating to this. I found blogs are more personal, allowing the individual to express their thoughts and ideas to their followers. Whereas wikis allows anyone to be able to post on that wiki. For collaborative learning wiki's could be very powerful. Below is the link to my wiki.

http://tonielearning.wikispaces.com/

Digital Tool 3- Concept Mapping


I used bubbl.us to create this concept map. I also explored mindmap which I found easy to use, but I prefered the graphics used in bubbl.us. Bubbl.us was fairly easy to use, although some of the key bubbles that I was trying to use were over lapping each other. I ended up with one slightly over lapping another.

In the classroom this would be an engaging tool. Time wise it may take longer then a simple barinstorming activity using a whiteboard. In saying that it is simple to read and understand and would be useful as a visual display in the classroom.

Blooms Digital Taxonomy

About Blogging

Although this is my first blogging experience, I can already see the benefits and functionality of using a blog. In this learning context blogging will allow me to record my learning journey throughout the entire course and possibly after. Reflecting on my experience with each learning tool will allow me to collaborate and offer advice to my fellow class mates and followers. I plan to use graphic organisers when exploring each tool, so I can strategically analysis each tool to the best of my ability. Blogging allows for a convenient, collaborative learning environment where knowledge and ideas can be shared.

Embracing The New

This is my first blogging experience and surprisingly the process was not as daunting as I expected. Looking forward to gaining new skills throughout this course.