In week 1 of EDLD 5364, I read about various tools and theories that assist teachers with implementing technology into the classroom. This week’s readings and lectures focused on topics such as Constructivism, social networking, problem solving, and technology tools.
“In a Constructivist classroom, students are more actively involved than in a traditional classroom. They are sharing ideas, asking questions, discussing concepts, and revising their ideas and misconceptions" (Sprague, 1999). This week, I learned that Constructivism provides beneficial insight for educators who want to use technology to support student learning. Constructivism and technology integration offers opportunities for enhancing intellectual growth by allowing students to connect their personal experiences and intrinsic abilities to learn. I gained the knowledge that classrooms that use the Constructivist approach will be more successful with technology integration.
"Like so many other technological innovations, social networks are accused by many of impacting society and education negatively" (McPeeters, 2009). I like this quote, because I think people who agree with the notion that "social networking has a negative impact" are those who do not use or understand the technology. Many people see the horrors of social networking, stalkers, and pedophiles, in the news. The news is notorious for publicizing the negative aspects and not focusing on the positive aspects.
I think technology and ethical social networking are instrumental to the academic success of the 21st Century Learner. I also believe educators must be lifelong learners and should be willing to change their attitude about implementing technology.
I have always believed that the mere presence of technologies would not enhance student learning. Educators must be willing to build local and global communities through social networking and technology integration. Educators must use the tools to enhance learning. Technology can help to create an active environment in which students not only solve problems, but they must be given the opportunity to use the technology.
Sprague, D. & Dede, C. (1999). If I teach this way, Am I doing my job: Constructivism in the classroom. Leading and Learning, 27(1). Retrieved October 4, 2009 from the International Society for technology in Education at http://imet.csus.edu/imet9/280/docs/dede_constructivism.pdf
McPheeters, D. (2009, March). Social networking technologies in education. Tech and Learning. Retrieved October 4, 2009 from http://www.techlearning.com/article/16250
