RefUrsulaE

REFUrsulaE

Twenty years ago I studied about learning theories not as in-depth as now and I can testify that I was not so enthusiastic or flabbergasted about the subject as I am now. I have reflected on my teaching over the years and have seen some pluses but many negatives that have been done to students unintentionally. If I could only have these individuals return to childhood and re-teach them the result will certainly be different. However, this is impossibility, but I can make a difference with the students who I have now and will have in the future.

It was quite surprising to me when I learnt about encoding specificity. Ormrod,J., Schunk, D. & Gredler,M.(2008) wrote ,“Retrieval depends on the manner of encoding. According to the encoding specificity hypothesis, the manner in which knowledge is encoded determines which retrieval cues will effectively activate that knowledge.” P83.This was astounding for me because whenever I gave students information which could be recall sometimes later, I never paid close attention to encoding specificity. Another writer, (Baddeley,1998) in Ormrod et al stated that “the best retrieval cues match those present during learning.”

Another aspect which caught my attention was vygotsky zone of proximal Development. Even if I had heard about it before it only sank in deeply during this course. However I have had good experiences with this concept. Sometimes as educators we do things that are correct through trial and error or by instincts and only to find out that out there is a theory to fit the experience.

The ARCS model of motivation is another major piece of information that I appreciated and was delighted to have this knowledge. I will certainly use this model in my present job.

This course has deepened my understanding of my personal learning process by helping me to understand the importance of the social environment to learning. Kozulin(1986) in Ormrod et al(2008) states that, “ social activity is a phenomenon that helps explain changes in consciousness and establishes a psychological theory that unifies behavior and mind.” Also the cultural-historical aspects of Vygotsky’s theory had a great impact on me. Ormrod et al(2008) made this critical statement, “the way that learners interact with their worlds-with the persons, object and institutions in it –transforms their thinking.” p 191. This has proven true to me especially during this course with Walden. Reading my colleagues’ discussion post and blogs has broadened my thinking.

The learning theories that an individual subjects himself to, will dictate his or her learning style, and will also lead to suitable educational technology which enhance or promote the learning style. Ultimately that individual will be motivated when he she is aroused to act and is kept engaged in certain activities particularly when the response is based on what was learnt.

The concepts learnt in this course will certainly enhance my career in the field of instructional design. Having learnt the various learning theories, learning styles, educational technological tools to make learning more meaningful and appetizing, I am better able to design and plan instruction for learners.

The course was truly interactive, fruitful, enlightening and motivating. The materials used will come in handy in time to come and is already in use on my job.

  

 Reference

Ormrod, J., Schunk, D., & Gredler, M. (2009). Learning theories and instruction (Laureate custom edition). New York: Pearson

Fitting the Pieces Together

The definition of learning by Ertmer Peggy ( as clearly explained by Schunk 1991) states that “learning is an enduring change in behavior, or in the capacity to behave in a given fashion, which result from practice or other forms of experience” (P 53), is a definition I have grown to appreciate and accept. Having read and studied different learning theories and learning styles my view on how I learn has changed slightly. The last part of the definition is the area of interest at the moment. In the past the enduring change in behavior or in the capacity to behave in given fashion resulted from practice but now that change comes from newly acquired experience.

This newly acquired experience with walden has shown me that how I learnt as a child and now as an adult are not quite the same. Looking back I recall that whenever concepts were brought to me by my teachers in creative, exceptional fashion and captured essential components of the concept I understood the concept more clearly and at one session unlike those learnt in a straight fashion. Back then I depended heavily on my teacher for knowledge, clarification and even correction of work done. Now I realize that knowledge does not reside in my teacher or professor but is everywhere. I learn through interacting with social tools and net work. Participating in online classroom, which is an extension of the social networking model. It serves is a higher purpose than what actually occurs on Facebook, High Five and Twitter. This on line classroom is an excellent application of constructivist learning theory. Constructivism asserts that knowledge is “subjective and personal” (Ormrod, Schunk, & Gredler, 2009, p. 184) and “that persons, behaviors, and environments interact in a reciprocal fashion” (p. 185). The constructivist learning environment encourages students to form collaborative groups for sharing ideas. Jenkins (2006), claims that “students learn better in cooperative groups than they do individually” (p. 5). Social constructivism however develops the idea a step farther and contends that “meaningful learning occurs when individuals are engaged in social activities” Kim, B. (2001) p. 3.The social network experience with Walden thus far has certainly enhanced my learning and changed my perception of learning too. Learning has become more self directed which means that  take charge of my own learning
Interacting with Transcript videos and all other technological tools has all assisted me to gain knowledge and search for information which gave me a deeper perspective into the various subjects discussed. Learning became much easier for I did not have to physically move to the public library but with a click receive material which related to the course content.

Connectivism which shares some basic principles with constructivism has been employed these past weeks and has been quite an enjoyable experience. Reading the various blogs, viewing video presentations, discussion board, linking to various URls have certainly broadened my horizon.Whenever; I posted to the discussion board I could sense when all was not right with my post.

Studying the Adult learning theory where I learnt that adults life and work experiences, age factor, time between learning interactions and cognitive abilities are all factors which influence learning confirmed the fact that my learning is different to that of the past.

Reference

Ertmer,P.A & Newby, T.J.(1993) Behaviorism, Cognitivism,Constructivism : Comparing Critical Features from an Instructional Design Perspective. Performance Improvement Quarterly, \
Jenkins, J. (2006). Constructivism. In Encyclopedia of educational leadership and administration. Retrieved May 22, 2011 from http://www.sage-ereference.com6(4), John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Kim, B. (2001). Social Constructivism. In M. Orey (Ed.). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved May 21, 2011 from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epitt

Ormrod, J., Schunk, D., & Gredler, M. (2009). Learning theories and instruction (Laureate custom edition). New York: Pearson.

connectivism

http://www.webspirationpro.com/publish.php?i=953142a1c6ff

Reflection

Reflections

Birbal, R. &Blair, J (2002) states that, “computers are now common place. The effects of computers are everywhere. Your knowledge of computer will serve you well, just as learning to read a map will make you a better traveler.”p6. There could be no better truth than this. According to the Philosopher Marc Prensky,even for the adult who is a “digital immigrant” views technology a means of survival in the business world. Efficient and effective networking must utilize technology.

 My network has certainly changed the way I learn.  In the past my main methods of learning were through information obtained from books, my teachers, vicarious experiences and news. I read consistently and made notes of key things I needed to remember. Whenever I went to any classroom I ensured I had a front seat or sat no further than the first three rows so as to minimize distractions and get the most from the class. Today with all this networking learning has become much easier for me. It is just with the click of a finger or a mouse and information is there at my convenience.  I can return to the information any time and almost from anywhere. For example even if I travel away from home information can still be retrieved due to technology. Therefore I no longer have to depend on hearing but manipulating computer images, doing activities that may be related to subject studied.

The digital tool that has facilitated learning for me is the computer. There are quite a few programs on the computer that has taught me some basic skills and enhanced learning in many areas of my life. For example, the use of excel and quick books which become possible through the use of computers has helped me tremendously in doing my accounts for my school. This task was very difficult to handle prior to these programs. Computer based Instruction tools such as those used for teaching a foreign language  have been very useful to me and the students whom I lecture.

Obtaining new knowledge particularly when I have questions does not take a long time to clarify. I do not have to go to a library and search through set books before obtaining the needed information. Rather,  I just simply go to a data base and type in the name of the author and year of publication and the book appears.  

The central tenets of Connectivism as purported by Lev Vygotsky is that the “influence of one’s social surroundings is imperative to learning and the development of thought.”  According to him, an individual’s community plays a major role in making meaning out of one’s life. One of his major contributions to the study of leaning was his concept of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). This in simple terms means the difference between what an individual can do on his or her own, and what he or she can do with assistance from someone more knowledgeable. My personal learning network supports this central tenents of connectivism. The world has become a global village which forms part of my community and social development. Thus when I use my network to obtain information or learn something new or communicate to a friend or colleague I am making meaning or finding meaning from matters which I am uncertain of. Furthermore, after reading through information obtained from my network I must reflect and analyze, synthesize,evaluate and comprehend the ideas studied. This in my opinion is using the concept of the zone of proximal development.

References

Birbal,R., &Blair, J. (2002). Information Technology for CXC,

              Trinidad, Pearson Education limited    

 Time Line Form the History of Learning. Flash Media Program retrieved from.    

               http://mym.cdn.laureate-media.com/Walden/EDUC/6115/01/mm/tec_timeline.html

My Mind Map -Connectivism

Information Processing Theory

Information Processing Theory

When I think of the words "Information Processing Theory," the computer comes to mind. The brain really works like a computer. It stores, processes and retrieves information. The computer must have been designed to function like the brain.

The writer attempts to show that the human mind does not only respond to stimuli but processes information it receives.

The theory believes that as children grow their brain becomes more mature. Thus the brain is able to function and carry out all the cognitive processes such as thinking perception, recognition, imagining, remembering, thinking, judging, reasoning, problem solving, conceptualizing, planning and more terms and applications.  Cognitive processes can stem from human language, thought, imagery and symbols. The information processing has four main pillars on which the theory is based. These pillars are in support of the cognitive models

These pillars include thinking, analysis of Stimuli, situational modification and obstacle Evaluation. Effective instructional designers cannot overlook these pillars. They are like the pillars to an individual’s house. Just as one takes time to place each pillar correctly so too these pillars are to be built on.

Other critical components are the sensory register, short term memory and long term memory.

The manner in which information passes through these memories is truly amazing.

As a prospective instructional designer I would really want to take time to help learners use short term, sensory and long term memory in the most effective way possible so that they can become efficient lifelong learners.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_processing_theory

Response to Brain Based learning. Possible Implication for on Line Learning

The writer pointed out that emotion is very critical to learning. Ormrod Jeane also identified emotion as critical component to learning. Learning should not be taken for granted. Every effort should be made by the presenter to ensure that his /her students learn. The writer left no stones unturned. That is to say several strategies to enhance learning were provided by the writer. If these strategies are employed learning will certainly be enhanced.

Of striking importance was the idea that the learner’s attention span is about 15-20 minutes. This is something that most presenters forget. Sometimes I have great difficulty in trying to convince e teachers that their lesson time frame needs to be reduced by cutting off irrelevant details. I have seen students switch off their interest after the first twenty minutes

Finally, I noticed the writer labored with on line learning and how important it is for learners to understand the method of retrieving and storing information some method cans be practiced overtime until more information is able to be stored for when needed.

On line learners were provided with clear guidance as to practices that could followed for successful learning. Certainly what striked me was the fact the the writer stressed that the visual and discussion board are very critical to the success of on line learners. Now if adults are to be taken care of in such manner. Students of primary school should by no means be shortchanged from various strategies for learning.http://www.itdl.org/Journal/Sep_05/article03.htm

Instructional designers need to this piece of information. It is very valuable and should be studied carefully.

Marne's Blog is quite an interesting blog for Instructional designers.She emphazized the role of training in an incresingly competetive environment.she points out the problem of retaining and obtaining highly skilled workers.She mentions that training will increase the likely hood of retaining workers and ensuring loyalty to the job.In addition she also made mention of the company having an advantage in making and improving its profits when training is done.

For the instructional designer this blog is quite useful and helpful. It works well in education. If individuals on the job are trained efrfectively they would be able to help students learn effectively. In otherwords educators should pass on the the knowledge of the theories of learning by training individuals who tutor students, be it aduls or children so that the students learning styles can be identified and instruction be organized to suit the learner.
 .http://coachingforpower.blogspot.com/


social network blog on Building a better Twitter chat encourages individuals to conduct twitter chat to enhance knowlege on a topic. in order words to enhance learning.The blogger has listed a few considerations for the individuals who would like to conduct twitter chat. Among them are ensuring that there is enough to talk about. For the instructional designer he/she must should be able to find interesting topics to build on topics that will interest the learners and keep them with a zeal to join in the twitter chat. I particularly like the fact that the instructional designer should not that lurkers will be present and persons may not be so inclined to join in conversation at first. Therefore training is important
http://nkilkenny.wordpress.com/


The blog ,Ideas;Instructional Desisgn for Elearning approaches. the writer of the blog deals with evaluating learning objects. He stresses that the business and the academic environments may not be the same but both need a formal reward system in place to recognize individuals who participate in the review process. He also emphazizes that recognition gives credit and trianing is vital.
The instructional designer should take note and ensure that learner is recognize appropiately for task well done . however like Ormrod J.,Schunk,D & Gredler,M puts it dont't over praise or credit.

http://ideas.blogs.com/lo/

Robert Gagne's Method should be cherished

Robert Gagne developed a theory which I have come to cherish. It is a theory which best describes how I have learnt in the past. This method may seem conventional because “Gagne has developed events of instruction in a nine step sequential process.” However for the creative, adventurous teacher these steps can be used in an unconventional manner. It may appear to be straight and rigid but it is not. It brings out ingenuity and flexibility.

The first step, Gain attention is critical to the learner. In my learning experience teachers who gained my attention with something creative which had to do with the lesson had me wrapped with excitement for new learning. Let us take an example here. If a teacher is about to teach a lesson on natural features to gain attention which is Gagne’s first step decides to post this picture on a screen

Pictures of natural features in Dominica

                         

The teacher may tell the student to observe the pictures on the screen. Then close his or her eyes and imagine standing right next to any of those sights and tell all the sounds that he or she can hear. This certainly will gain the student’s attention. The teacher may then ask the student to open his eyes now and may inform him of what is about to be learnt .This should help shaped the mind to focus on natural features in his or her environment.

The teacher may have a student mimic or role play an aspect of prior learning. This is third step in Gagne’s theory. A stimulus material such as a movie of a group on a visit to several natural features can be presented. With such stimulus material the teacher will certainly be able to have student generate or illicit good response and ideas from the video presentation. This aspect actually has a link to behaviorism and cognitivism. Constructivism can also be linked to this method particularly after learner guidance is provided and performance is elicited.

The teacher can have students write a poem on natural features or compose a song on natural features based on the movie shown and his or her experience. Having done this the teacher will provide feedback and conclude the presentation

One may ask; why should Robert’s theory be cherished? First it has met the three essential criteria for any theory. According to Clark Hull(1935) in Ormrod,J Schunk,D & Gredler Magaret (2008) Gagne’s condition of learning is the acquisition of increasingly complex structures of learned capabilities that build on prior learning.”p6 In addition, it is advised that no one set of characteristics can describe all human learning. However Gagne identified five clear varieties.

Gagne theory can work and learning can be effective using his theory.

Knowing how students learn is indeed very critical. When an instructional designer understands how students learn performance will improve.

Robert Gagne developed a theory which I have come to cherish. It is a theory which best describes how I have learnt in the past. This method may seem conventional because “Gagne has developed events of instruction in a nine step sequential process.” However for the creative, adventurous teacher these steps can be used in an unconventional manner. It may appear to be straight and rigid but it is not. It brings out ingenuity and flexibility.

The first step, Gain attention is critical to the learner. In my learning experience teachers who gained my attention with something creative which had to do with the lesson had me wrapped with excitement for new learning. Let us take an example here. If a teacher is about to teach a lesson on natural features to gain attention which is Gagne’s first step decides to post this picture on a screen

Pictures of natural features in Dominica

                         

The teacher may tell the student to observe the pictures on the screen. Then close his or her eyes and imagine standing right next to any of those sights and tell all the sounds that he or she can hear. This certainly will gain the student’s attention. The teacher may then ask the student to open his eyes now and may inform him of what is about to be learnt .This should help shaped the mind to focus on natural features in his or her environment.

The teacher may have a student mimic or role play an aspect of prior learning. This is third step in Gagne’s theory. A stimulus material such as a movie of a group on a visit to several natural features can be presented. With such stimulus material the teacher will certainly be able to have student generate or illicit good response and ideas from the video presentation. This aspect actually has a link to behaviorism and cognitivism. Constructivism can also be linked to this method particularly after learner guidance is provided and performance is elicited.

The teacher can have students write a poem on natural features or compose a song on natural features based on the movie shown and his or her experience. Having done this the teacher will provide feedback and conclude the presentation

One may ask; why should Robert’s theory be cherished? First it has met the three essential criteria for any theory. According to Clark Hull(1935) in Ormrod,J Schunk,D & Gredler Magaret (2008) Gagne’s condition of learning is the acquisition of increasingly complex structures of learned capabilities that build on prior learning.”p6 In addition, it is advised that no one set of characteristics can describe all human learning. However Gagne identified five clear varieties.

Gagne theory can work and learning can be effective using his theory.

Knowing how students learn is indeed very critical. When an instructional designer understands how students learn performance will improve.