22nd December 2015


Learning theory and classroom technologies

Post to your blog your thoughts about the learning theories that may underpin the software you have been considering for your first assignment. Of course, some software can be used in many different ways, and some is quite specifically one type of learning theory.

Up until now there have been 2 dominant learning theories - directed instruction or 'positivist' (sometimes referred to as 'behaviourist'), developed in the industrial age which is the traditional teacher-centred "chalk and talk" method where teachers impart knowledge to the students who learn it.   In the 20th century the 'constructivist' perspective emerged - this is inquiry-based where learners generate their own knowledge based on experience - the teacher's role is more of  a 'facilitator'.  Roblyer & Doering (2014) say that both approaches can be incorporated when integrating technology in the classroom (p. 62). 

Starkey (2012) discusses a third emerging learning theory - 'connectivism' developed by George Siemens (2004).  This learning theory considers how people, organisations and technolology can collaboratively construct knowledge (p. 26).  With the arrival of the internet, the abundance of information and ideas at one's fingertips is phenomenal compared to access to information in the past when it was the domain of teachers or 'experts' and books.  In addition to this social networking and interactive web enable anyone to not only find information but to interact with others, present their own ideas, collaborate and make connections globally.  Starkey says that therefore knowledge is becoming "decentralised" and is constantly being "created, shared and reviewed" (p. 24).  Starkey also points out that learning is becoming less "linear" and increasingly three dimensional with "hyperlinks or navigation within and across key ideas or concepts" (p. 27).

I've chosen the following software for my first assignment:

1.  Microsoft Word - the students will write their report in this application.  Like the teacher "Mia" described by Roblyer  & Doering (2014, pp 73-77) I will need to do some directed instruction to teach the students how to use certain features necessary when writing their report such as tables.

2.  Prezi - students to present their findings to the class when doing the oral presentation.  Again I will need to do some direct instruction initially to show the students how to use it, then they will work in small groups to collaborate and practice using this software - e.g.  import pictures and you tube clips, my role will them become a facilitator.  The students will be able to share their prezi with other class members so they can comment on each other's work.  All 3 learning theories at work here I think.

3.  Survey Monkey to create survey questions.   Similar to the previous methods, some initial directed instruction but mostly collaborative learning with students working together to create surveys to then collect information to write report.