Friday, August 20, 2010

Personal Theory of Learning Reflection

In my personal theory of learning paper I discussed that I primarily use a more of a social constructivism approach. “Social constructivism was well articulated by Lev Vyogotsky and Albert Bandura. In this view, learning is considered a result of collaboration of a group of learners in effort to construct a common core of knowledge” (Duffy & McDonald, 2008). Throughout the course I have learned that each student learns different. Therefore I must adjust to different kinds of practices that include constructivism, constructionism, and behaviorism. A modification I would like to make is to have class more engaging for the students. The units should include lessons with more cooperative games and teamwork.

I think the one thing that is lacking in physical education is the use of technology outside of the classroom. Our classroom is quite different because our primarily goal is to keep kids active during class time. I think by incorporating technology homework assignments students will learn more about health and nutrition. The immediate adjustments I want incorporate in this year unit is the use of Blogs, Voice threads, and Virtual Tours. The students do not have enough time in our daily classroom routine to learn about all the health and fitness topics. Students can access their blog from home and discuss certain topics and questions that I have assigned. This will help students be more aware of living a healthier lifestyle. Voice threads are great, because this engages students in talking about a certain topic. This is also very engaging which will capture the minds of young children.

One long term goal I would like to accomplish is to develop a program which technology is more part of the classroom. Students and educators will develop the necessary skills to maintain a healthier lifestyle. Information is important, but it’s how you relay that information that makes it worth while. Working together with classroom teachers to help the students develop the necessary skills to use blogs, voice threads, and virtual tours will help every classroom.

Another long term goal is educating other teachers about using technology in the classroom. Educators whose teaching styles are “old –traditional method” tend to stay away from technology. We as colleagues have to address the importance of using technology in today’s classrooms. Educators have to adapt to society to incorporate a more engaging curriculum. Having a demonstration to each teacher personally how technology can enhance the students learning experience will have more a effect on the teacher using that technology in the classroom.

Reference:

Lever-Duffy, J. & McDonald, J. (2008). Theoretical Foundations (Laureate Education, Inc.,custom ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Voice Thread

Here is a link to my Voice thread promoting how to have a healthy heart


http://voicethread.com/share/1261926/