From the seven principals I found the 2 that were most meaningful for me were engouraging active learning and respecting diverse talents and ways of learning.

3. Encourages Active Learning

I couldn’t agree more with the statement made “Learning is not a spectator sport.” (Bates & Poole,  2003) I find that all too often teachers get the wrong idea in that they think it is their duty to expel the information that they have acquired. In my experiences and observations students take in very little by receiving information from someone else as the truth. This also sets them up for failure by not encouraging them to become self-directed and inquisitive learners. My favorite observation and moment I like to observe when teaching is what I refer to as the “ah-ha” moment. This is when a student figures out a process using their own understanding and often in children they will blurt out “Now I get it!”

7. Respects Diverse Talents and Ways of Learning

I also feel that proper use of technology should promote students to become self -directed, work at their own pace, and track progress over time. Today, it is much more feasible to provide each student a personalized experience based on a particular need. If a student struggles with a concept then more practice and explanation should be provided. If they have acquired or mastered a skill, they should be able to move on to the next concept or receive an engaging activity that enriches their knowledge. This would ensure that students are remediated or enriched as needed and create a differentiated learning experience that meets the needs and interests of a diverse population of individuals.

Resources:

Bates, A.W. & Poole, G. (2003). Chapter 4: a Framework for Selecting and Using Technology. In Effective Teaching with Technology in Higher Education: Foundations for Success. (pp. 77-105). San Francisco: Jossey Bass Publishers.

Chickering, A.W. & Ehrmann, S.C. (1996).  Implementing the Seven Principles: Technology as Lever. American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 49(2), 3-6.

Chickering, A.W. & Gamson, Z.F. (1987).  Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education.  American Association for Higher Education Bulletin, 39 (7), 3-7.