Im Just A Teacher So What Do I Know

As I reflect back on my personal theory of learning from week one of this course, I do not see that I need to make an major modifications. I discussed in my paper from week one that I feel that it is important to teach to the different learning styles that are present in my classroom and I still believe that is very important. I did learn through this course different technology tools and learning theories that will help me to continue in my quest to teach to the different learning styles in my classroom.

There are two technology tools that I am very excited to begin implementing into my lesson plans. One of those is the voice thread technology tool. I have actually already complete one of these with my students and I went over very well. Another technology tool that I have began to implement into my curriculum is concept mapping. In our school we have a software program call Kidspiration that allows us to create different types of concept maps with our students using both text and pictures. Both of these technology tools allow my students to construct learning while working and also working with partners. This makes learning more exciting and meaningful for the learner.

One goal I have for myself and my students is to move more toward a paper free classroom. I would like to move away from worksheets and paper activities and depend more on technology tools and virtual projects. Another goal I have is to incorporate Skype into my lessons and network more with other schools. I think that having students work with students from other regions and cultures will greatly benefit them better prepare them to be successful in the work force. I already started working on both of these goals and I fully anticipate on reaching both of them.

Here is the link to my voice thread http://voicethread.com/share/784202/

Chapter 7, Cooperative Learning, is an excellent resource for involving more social learning theory into your classroom while also integrating technology. The resources listed in the chapter were probably some of my favorite thus far. My favorite portion of the chapter was the "Keypals" section on page 145. Under this heading were several ways to connect students from around the globe together to work collaboratively on projects and assignments. I think this is an excellent idea, as I have always been a big fan of "pen pals". I think allowing students to work with students from other cities, states, and countries is an excellent way to prepare students to be global communicators. It also exposes students to other cultures and points of view that they wouldn't have otherwise experienced. I think Skype is another excellent tool that allows students to connect socially with other students and work face-to-face with students that they may or may not know.

All of this week's resources directly correlate with the social learning theory because they focus on students working together, constructing knowledge, and conversating about what they are learning.