I am excited to begin a new adventure with the start of this course. There is an atmosphere encouraging exploration, and we have been asked to make some decisions on the direction our learning will take. This Flight Plan is written to synthesize my goals and learning plans for the course.
My experience in education comes from teaching students in a high school context. I have a background in Science, Math and PE and interests in electronics, technology, and mechanics. I have some experience with Moodle, I use a number of the basic features such as quizzes, uploading assignments, and some minor collaborative projects with my students.
The classroom use of Moodle has been positive. Students enjoy the ease at which they can check on work from home, write and rewrite quizzes, and work collaboratively with others in the class. Chickering and Gamson (1987) identify a number of good practices in undergraduate education including the development of reciprocity and cooperation among students, giving prompt feedback, and respecting diverse talents and ways of thinking. I believe that use of Moodle will be an excellent way to bring these practices to my classroom.
Being an open source and evolving Learning Management System (LMS), Moodle is rich in features and design, but I have been hesitant to explore the depths and features of the software. As a result, there is a bit of a superficial feel after the novelty of it wears off. With the help of this course, I hope to explore the features of Moodle, and other learning software, to build a richer, more authentic learning environment for my students.
I also have an interest in developing an understanding of technology particularly in the fields of basic programming and the integration with peripheral electronics such as sensors, switches, motors, and circuits. With this understanding, I hope to be able to offer new learning opportunities to students in a hands-on, experiential learning style. I have used the Lego NXT systems and found them to be great in terms of the ease of use and ability to do fairly complex tasks. I would like to explore the use of the Arduino boards and their uses in data recording, relay control, and feedback loops which could be integrated into a number of classes such as Science, Math, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Tech-Ed and others.
Another goal is to develop my understanding of the digital resources available to support learning. The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) (2009) identifies that educational leaders need to “model and promote the frequent and effective use of technology for learning.” I feel the best way to accomplish this, and other performance indicators, is to have a broad understanding of the technology available. I am convinced of the power of technology and its positive effects on learning. I would like to be a strong advocate for its further integration into learning environments, another performance indicator of the ISTE (2009) document.
Although the benefits of technology may appear obvious, I would like to encourage others to use technology to promote a learner centered approach. Many educational professionals are intimidated by the diversity of technology choices available. I hope to be exposed to a wide array of technologies, from various LMSs, student input technology (clickers), software, networking approaches, and different operating systems so that I can be a valuable resource for others.
References:
Chickering, A.W. and Gamson, Z.F. (1987). Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 39 (7), p. 3-7. Retrieved from
http://www.aahea.org/bulletins/articles/sevenprinciples1987.htm
International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE). (2009). National Educational Technology Standards for Administrators. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/Libraries/PDFs/NETS_for_Administrators_2009_EN.sflb.ashx