Day 5 - Learning Puzzle # 1

As we discussed from last class, technology itself can't be the only factor to influence learning. We also reached the agreement that technology (computers) can’t replace teacher's role in the classroom. However,teachers can integrate technology with the appropriate methods to improve students' learning. There are some elements that we need to consider and further develop the appropriate methods for using technology. Today, we begin to introduce "Learning Puzzle", which comprises curriculum standard, learning theories, teaching strategies, and resources and tools.


1. Curriculum Standard - How do educators know what to teach?
How do they know what students should learn? Every state has
standards and every content area has national standards. There
are even standards for technology integration. Georgia is
transitioning from Quality Core Curriculum Standards (QCC) to
the Georgia Performance Standards. You can even watch a video about the Georgia Performance Standards. You'll also want to be familiar with the ISTE standards for technology integration -- this class, and your course projects,are based on those standards. Select a grade level and subject area that will be the focus of your projects this semester. You'll need to print a copy of these standards and place them in your 3-ring binder for reference purposes this semester.


2. Learning Theories - How do educators know how to meet
the needs of the specific learners with which they are working? Are their different types of learners? Does everyone understand subject matter in the same way? How can teachers identify the different types of learners in their classrooms? Take this online quiz to determine your learning style. Find two other classmates who have similar learning styles. Find one learning/study habit that you have in common and be ready to share it with the class. Here are more resources on learning styles.
Learning Styles and Strategies
Learning Styles Explained
Learning Styles Chart
Learning Styles Self-Assessment
Multiple Intelligence Inventory

But understanding learning styles is just one part of this puzzle piece. Understanding the various learning theories is important to be able to prepare an appropriate learning environment for your students. Read more about learning theories here.


For Next Monday (Jan. 22):
1. Read the article – Technologies for Teaching and Learning
2. Print a copy of the curriculum standards for your chosen subject/grade
level. Type responses to the questions listed below and turn in a printed
copy at the beginning of class on next Monday (Jan. 22).

• Why did you chose this content area/grade level?
• In general, what is the content focus for your grade level?
• What surprised you about your standards?
• What specific standards lend themselves to technology integration?
  What is it about them that causes you to determine this?
• If you were actually teaching this content area/grade level what
  would you want your students to know and be able to do? What
  would be your priorities? What would you want them to remember
  from your class?

3. Print out your learning style online quiz result.
4. Autobiography page will be due on next Monday (Jan. 22). Please send
me your URL for your autobiography page to yichunhong@gmail.com
(Subject: autobiography_yourname).