Journal 9: How to Do More with Less

Journal 9: How to Do More with Less

Pape, L., Sheehan, T., & Worrell, C. (2012). How to do more with less: Lessons from online learning. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(6), 18-22. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning and leading/DigitalEditionMarch-April2012.aspx

Summary:
The article summarizes way to save time and money while increasing student engagement using current trends in technology. The idea of incorporating a blended teaching model (use of digital content and materials to enhance the learning process) and flipped classroom instruction ( teachers use technology to deliver a lesson versus homework and standard classroom practice) are two strategies that would provide the teacher/educator with more time and efficiency to incorporate technology in the classroom. Blogs, wikis, social bookmarking tools, and creative expression tools, were examples of resources that are free and easy to integrate in an educational setting. The authors provided examples from classrooms that are currently incorporating technology in literacy labs using storyboards, and publishing comic strips using comic generators such as ToonDoo. Student engagement and positive learning experiences were a direct result.

Q1: I feel that teacher training and observation would be a critical component to understanding both ideologies of blended teaching and flipped classroom instruction prior to implementation as well having access to mentor for support through the technology process. With endless technology opportunities, how do teachers become confident and embrace new models, strategies, and integrated technology concepts?

A1: As an educator, I am overwhelmed and intimidated at the endless amounts of resources, technology options, and classrooms that are embracing and integrating technology regularly. This class has been an "eye-opener" for me. First of all, it has simply introduced me to current trends in technology and how it can be used in an academic setting. Secondly, it has made me realize that my professional development needs to shift. I have constantly focused on special education law, sensory strategy trainings, behavior management, curriculum, etc. I realize that my area of growth needs to be in the tech arena. Observing blended teaching models, flipped classrooms, and how Glogster, Voice Thread, and Prezi are being used in general education classrooms would be beneficial and facilitate a hands-on learning experience. It is easy to read, research, and listen to how technology is being integrated in classrooms; I feel that observing would make the process seem practical and realistic and teachers would be willing to dabble in the ever-changing tech world. I know that my confidence with something as simple as blogging has increased simply because it is put to use, every day in class. In order to gain confidence when learning something new, hands-on experience and observation are necessary.