Optimal Implementation of Tech Tools: Creating Meaningful Learning Opportunities

• In Event: Optimal Implementation of Tech Tools: Creating Meaningful Learning Opportunities

Short Description

The development of new technologies has propelled us into the 21st Century, finding ourselves immersed in a world of different devices with which we remain "connected". The rate of development has left us trying to simply learn the new technologies. But are we using these optimally for student learning? We must consider learning theories when choosing the best technologies to use. This presentation reminds us of learning theories and how they are the foundation of the appropriate implementation of new tech tools in learning. To choose the appropriate technologies, we must begin with the needs of the learners. Where are they on Bloom’s Taxonomy? What do they know? What do they still need to learn? Combining learning theories with Bloom’s, we should consider: 1. Behaviorism: “Training”, Imprinting, Conditioning, Reinforcements ----- Relates to Blooms Remembering (More of an INDIVIDUAL processing step) 2. Cognitivism: Information Processing, Schema Theory --- Relates to Blooms Understanding into Application (For quality control purposes, requires some “fact checking” for accuracy with a “more knowledgeable other” (instructor/trainer/teacher) (Once accuracy in the Cognitivism stage has reached a level of mastery…..) 3. Constructivism: Making Connections between Concepts – Relates to Bloom’s Analysis into Evaluation, laying the foundation for Creating (This level is greatly enhanced by a more social aspect of collaboration/discussion/debate. That practice helps to either confirm and solidify the concepts created by the learner….or allows for corrections to mis-understandings developed earlier in the knowledge gathering process. This step still requires oversight by an instructor/trainer/teacher, but not to the level of Cognitivism. Once the instructor/trainer/teacher ensures accuracy in the more basic level of Analysis, there can be more autonomy for students to work together within the Create Level. The session will initially present examples of technology chosen to address needs of the learners. Then, participation will be encouraged for a more dynamic conversation of the “how” in this process

Authors

• Presenter: Marilyn Rice, Sam Houston State University

• Presenter: Kimberly N LaPrairie, Sam Houston State University