Journal #9

Pape, Sheehan, Worrell. (2012). How to do more with less. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(6), 18-22. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/February-2012.aspx

The article addresses the growing concern schools are faced which is how they are to teach students effectively when more students are entering the classroom each year and the schools are given less time and funding to do so. To answer this problem the schools are beginning to turn to online possibilities. The article presents two different methods of education: blended teaching and flipped classroom instruction. Blended teaching involves a mixture of both in class and online sessions for class-time. Flipped classroom instruction creates a situation opposite that of standard classes. Students learn the content while at home and use their class time to actively practice the material so they can get immediate support when it is needed.

Question One: What are examples of tools that students can use to improve their online learning experience?

There are many different types of support available to students through the use of the internet. Blogs can be used to express their ideas, knowledge, and question to a real audience and are able to receive feedback to them. Wikis can be used to promote collaborative skills while also providing students to share ideas between their group partners. Social bookmarking can be used to support the research of students. Not only can they find information for themselves they can also share it so that others can benefit as well.

Question Two: Are either of the methods presented beneficial to the students?

The use of digital alterations to the standard classroom has numerous benefits to the students. The create capabilities of a student can be further developed through assignments since they can brainstorm, design, illustrate, their assignments in new ways. In one example the students were to create a story and by using easy to use programs were able to create storyboards far beyond what they could do with paper and pencil. The use of social networking also helps students learn to cooperate with others. The use of devices such as blogs, social bookmarking, and wikis, students learn to work with one other and provide feedback on their work.