Reflective Synopsis

Over the last 6 week I have been introduced to a number of ICT tools that we can consider using in the classroom. ‘Through the online system, we should recognize the importance of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in online system of teaching and learning or e-learning’( Kaware & Sain 2015). As we are in a society where a majority of our activities, communications and everyday daily tasks, such as banking, are all online e-learning has become an important aspect of the 21st Century classroom.

Through the exploration of Information Communication Technologies I have found that they play a very important role in the classroom today. Most students in a classroom will know how to use online tools. As technology evolves and more tools become accessible to students around the world, e-learning is an essential aspect of teaching today. 

The learning theories of Constuctivism, Cognitivism and Connectivism relate to e-learning. E-learning allows students to create their own knowledge though experience such as sharing ideas. This is a demonstration of the learning theory Constructivism. Students are able to acquire and process information from e-learning. There is so much information available at their finger-tips to enhance the learning experience. This process of acquiring information is an example of Cognitivism. With e-learning students are able to connect with other students worldwide to collaborate ideas or gain a better understanding of a topic being taught at school. The process of connecting with others is an example of Connectivism.  Having so much information available to students on topics creates a world where they need to take charge of their own learning. For example, there are applications available online for students who are struggling to assist them in improving their knowledge and skills on a particular subject.

After investigating a number of ICT’s the two tools that I find that could be incorporated successfully into a lesson is a Wiki or a Prezi. To choose the right ICT for a lesson the SAMR model can assist us in choosing an ITC that creates opportunities for students that would be beneficial to their learning outcomes. ‘SAMR provides us with a critical framework for assessing the richness of the technology task itself’ (Kirkland. AB, 2014, p. 15). SAMR was used to evaluate the Wiki and Prezi in previous blogs.  

There are many benefits that are associated with ICT’s. With so many applications being available online there are benefits such as access to learning 24/7. If students are unable to attend school due to illness they can still access the information needed for them to learn from home, meaning that they can still participate in school and not fall behind. This will be especially important for students who have disabilities or illnesses that require them to be away from school for long periods of time. The negative aspect of ICT’s are the time associated with monitoring the online activities, students not staying on topic and the possibilities of online bullying and inappropriate use of an application.

With using ICT’s it is very important that guidelines are put in place. Most schools have a policy on ICT’s and the guidelines that need to be adhered too. However, it is also important to instruct your class on the rules and expectations you have with the ICT’s (that keep within the guidelines and policies of the school you are working for). Students can misuse ICT’s in ways such as going off topic, bullying and inappropriate behavior online. For any ICT to be used successfully in the classroom also needs to be used correctly by staff and students. Other issues that are to be considered are the issue of copyright. Student s need to know that it is important to reference any work they used, whether it be a YouTube video or an image, in their work. 

Cyber Safety is another important issue. With so many activities online these days as a teacher it is up to us to decide whether or not an ICT we choose will be appropriate for the lesson, the risks involved, and also gaining permissions from the school. Students need to have knowledge of what Cyber safety is and how they can protect themselves.

Throughout the last 5 weeks investigating ICT’s, I have gained knowledge and insight into the importance and benefits ICT’s in the classroom. As a 21^st Century learner ICT’s can assist students in their learning journeys by creating an engaging and interactive learning environment that has endless possibilities. 

References:

Clark, D. 1999. Bloom’s Taxonomy of Learning Domains, Big Dog & Little Dog Perfromance Juxta Position. Retrieved. http://www.nwlink.com/~donclark/hrd/bloom.html#cognitive.

CQUniversity. A Brief Overview of Learning Theory. CQUniversity Moodle EDED20491: ICT’s for Learning Design. Retrieved. http://moodle.cqu.edu.au/mod/page/view.pho?id=15608. 

Kirkland, AB. 2014. Models for Technology Integration in the Learning Commons. School Libraries in Canada, edn – Winter 2013, pp 14-18.

Kaware, S.S & Sain, S. K. 2015. ‘ICT Application in Education: An Overview’ International Journal of Multidisciplinary Approach and Studies Vol. 2. No. 1 Jan – Feb 2015