'Experience is the teacher of all things' (Caesar)
While the parents of a wholesome, 12-year-old girl may not appreciate this sentiment in a Sex Ed class, it is widely recognized that experiential learning is most effective (Kolb, 1975).
Thankfully then, many of the ‘Technology Operations and Concepts’ found in the Standards for Michigan Teachers (2008), were planned to plunge student researchers directly into the waters of experience directly through the EDU590 course’s work, specifically the assignment entitled ‘Youtube Video Presentation’. Students were required to research strategies employing technology, plan lessons according to those strategies, implement these lessons, and reflect upon this experience; all through a variety of technological interfaces. This one assignment nearly dashes all the 7th Standard’s subtopics (A to G) in a single, deceivingly thorough assignment.
One exception to the above statement would be section B, “Successfully complete and reflect upon collaborative online learning experiences”. For this objective, the maintenance of blogs and contribution to group message boards were the platforms for 'jumping off'. Many student researchers were unaccustomed to blogging regularly and airing their thoughts for the all the world (wide web) to see, though all were successful.
While the levels of comfort and knowledge with specific technology may be quite diverse in the class, I can also appreciate that the Michigan Standards document is wise enough to be set upon an axis of development. Categories for teacher performance range, such as: Standard, Developing, Emerging, Applying, Integrating, and Innovating, which allows individuals to find access and challenge with technology in their professional practice. Professionalism is the key, underlying concept in the document, not technology. As each operation or concept is merely the use of prominent or emerging technologies to apply to one’s professional reflection and growth. It's like swimming lessons for all skill ranges, and ensures that at least everybody is in the pool.
I’ve found the objectives of this course to be precisely the challenge I have been seeking in regards to diving headlong into technology and professional development. The 7th standard for teachers in Michigan may be a bit daunting from a dry deck, but quite refreshing and invigorating once you’re immersed.
I can safely say that I’ve gotten more than my feet wet.
References:
Caesar, Gaius Julius (c. 52 BC) Commentarii de Bello Civili.
Kolb. D. A. and Fry, R. (1975) Toward an applied theory of experiential learning. in C. Cooper (ed.) Theories of Group Process, London: John Wiley
Yes, the 7th standards subtopics do align with the objectives for this class very nicely. The instructor for this course has also done a very nice job in challenging the class to think outside of the box.
ReplyDeleteThe technologies and standards that we are using and reviewing for this course seem to be new for many of us and I know that I have found it challenging. Indeed professionalism is the key. As we evaluate these topics and standards, it does make one think and reflect on what we have lived and seen. It also helps us to grow and to challenge what we are doing.
As we are faced with higher standards and new technologies, there can be no more standing on the diving board afraid to jump in, one must get in the pool.
Being a prior swimming, I enjoyed the analogy of swimming with technology. I did not realize that the YouTube assignment covered so many subtopics. The blogs that I am currently writing on does creative a group learning experience as we are referencing each student’s writings on topics that make us reflect on objectives in EDU 590 and topics covered by teaching standards. I was glad to hear that you mentioned that concepts are key to this document and not the technology at bay. I think these concepts covered are the centerpiece to teaching as technology is just a tool to assist the teaching process.
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