In the ideas explored with the EDUC 6711 course authors this week, there are great tools available for teachers to utilize in order to help students perfect their constructive abilities as well. In order to foster these constructive skills, students must have the freedom to choose whatever outlet that best suits them to accomplish a simple task or larger project. That is where technology opens up a larger set assortment of methods and tools for students to express their knowledge.
For students to utilize different methods of technology to express their learning on a subject I allow all my students to present the final projects of the course year in one of the following formats: podcast, powerpoint, wiki site, or blog site. By using such tools the students can build their projects in the manner they deem fits their lifestyle and reflects who they are in their own personal communication characteristics. In the past, students have commented how much they love that freedom of academic expression and I am excited to learn more options to offer my students in the future from this particular course as well.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I love the idea of providing students with the opportunity to choose which program they would like to use to complete a project. Giving students a choice allows them to have more ownership of their learning. I have used this strategy in the past. It is not hard to do. I usually create a set list of criteria that would easily be adapted to the different programs. Since the expectations are the same, students are able to easily choose a program that fits their personal learning style and area of expertise. Some of my coworkers feel that it is too time consuming to create activities that allow choice. I, however, feel that the time to create such an activity is well worth the effort.
ReplyDeleteJodi, It's very sad that your colleagues don't feel the same way. Attempting to try something new is the best way to learn and improve your practice. I'm glad to see that you're not scared to try.
ReplyDeleteHi Steve, that is a great idea of letting students express what they have learned in their own way. There are many different ways to express knowledge and if students can pick which one works the best, then they will not only be able to complete the assignment, but they may be more motivated to do so since they get to create it and have more ownership of the project. Are there any students that don't have access to this technology at your school?
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