Module 6 Post

Research-Based Theory on Learning and Instruction

Learning can be identified as the materialization and transformation of information which is in turn utilized to develop awareness of a particular area or discipline. Technology can be implemented to offer an integral component of education and learning. This quarter my classmates and I learned a lot in regards to Siemens and his theory of Connectivsm as it relates to fundamentals of learning in a digital age. Technology has the ability to provide better elasticity for education and learning with benefits such as online instruction and collaboration. Technology provides us with opportunities to expand our learning community and network by making connections with learners all over the world. Online learning environments allow individuals to feel less inhibited by allowing them to express themselves and still feel nearly anonymous.

Collaborating with students from all over the globe allows for the sharing of experiences from different perspectives. Learning about their various philosophies offers exposure to broader perspectives which can in turn make learning more exciting. Individuals learn best when the most effective and suitable learning theory is employed which outlines a plan for delivering and interpreting information as well as predicting the outcome. Educators have the responsibility of creating and delivering an educational environment that will undoubtedly nurture the learner’s erudition process and outcome. Technology will support the future demands of technology in preparing learners to compete in out global market by offering out students the tools they need to be successful.

References

Driscoll, M. P. (2005). Psychology of learning for instruction (3rd ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education.

Siemens, G. (2004). Connectivism: A learning theory for the digital age. Retrieved from
http://elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm

Affective Learning Theory

Scanning solutions are common tools used in many industries. Four years ago my current institution decided to implement scanning solutions to reduce paper as well as storage costs. Some colleagues who perform clerical duties fear that their positions will become obsolete if technology is used to leverage efficiency and effectiveness.

Reluctance to change is probably the most common attitude towards adopting the scanning solutions amongst employees and staff. Individuals who preferred to look at hard copies of text or reports containing hundreds of pages were skeptical about utilizing scanning solutions which would eliminate the presence of the hard cover materials. As an educational technologist, I am often caught off guard by the number of colleagues who possess low self-efficacy in experimenting with new technologies. This is probably because as tech savvy people we absorb innovations easily and sometimes assume everyone else will too.

Keller’s ARCS model can be utilized to alter the motivation of employees and staff at my institution (Driscoll, 2005). According to Driscoll, John Keller’s ARCS Model of Motivational Design, is comprised of four steps for promoting and sustaining motivation in the learning process: Attention, Relevance, Confidence, Satisfaction (ARCS) (Driscoll, 2005). Enhancing relevance and building confidence are probably the two most important steps to encouraging success amongst colleagues in relation to adopting scanning solutions and similar technologies. Enhancing relevance will reduce reluctance to change because individuals will be able to relate the usefulness of the innovations to their career and personal goals. Building confidence is significant because once individuals begin to recognize they can effectively carry out demanding processes utilizing the innovations, optimistic expectations are developed.

Educational leaders need to do more to emphasize the importance of technology proficiency and skills. I think it is assumed that if everyone is obligated to develop technology skills, we’re making it clear to everyone that the technology is valuable. If technology is not a constant in the lives of our colleagues, then it will always feel like a big deal when they need to adopt a new innovation.

Reference

Driscoll, M. P. (2000). Psychology of learning for instruction (2nd ed.). Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

8845 Module 4 Blog

Understanding technology comes easy to me but there are times when I have to shake my head over today’s technology. Siemens (Laureate, 2010) affirmed in his Connectivism Learning Theory video that our world as becomingly “increasingly complex” in a highly fragmented information society.

Blogs, wikis, and discussion boards are a few of the digital tools which facilitate learning for me. All of these tools have a significant impact on collaboration within environments such as virtual classrooms and distance learning. I have come to realize that individuals are more likely to absorb information at a higher rate if they work together. Learners are able to develop new knowledge and increase understanding as a result of collaborative exchange.

There is an endless amount of information outlets available today that were only ideas not long ago. Technological devices such as computers, laptops, tablets, scanners, and smart phones have spawned global transformations in the way individuals live their lives. Gone are the days of looking for the morning paper. No longer do we have to wait for the evening news to see the weather forecast. All we have to do in order to become up to date with news and information is turn on, log on or turn to our blackberry or satellite radio.

Technologies such as computers, tablets as well as portable digital devices have played an integral role in enhancing the effectiveness of learning communities. Thanks to these electronic gizmos and tools, individuals globally are able to stay connected and in touch. I am no longer dependent upon newspapers, radio, and other forms of static communication to receive news and information. This is due to the many digital devices and gadgets at my fingertips. Dynamic forms of communication can be enhanced by tools such as iPads and tablets due to their portability and robust feature offerings. As a steward of the discipline in educational technology, I can utilize this knowledge of media and technology to help sustain the transformation into a communications oriented society.

Reference

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Connectivism Learning Theory