Learning+Philosophy

My Learning Philosophy

I believe that all students have the right to access technology. Also that, fairness is not everybody getting the same thing; fairness is everyone getting what they need.

Learning occurs on multiple levels. The brain must be connected on a mixture of different levels for the gaining of knowledge to occur. According to Dr. Jerre Levy of the University of Chicago, "brains are built to be challenged. They operate at optimal levels only when cognitive processing requirements are of sufficient complexity" Students need to be challenged, but not too challenged that they are overwhelmed.

Technology touches almost every part of our lives. Most schools are far behind when it comes to integrating technology into the classroom. When it is appropriately used, technology will help students obtain the skills they need to survive in today’s economy. “Effective tech integration must happen across the curriculum in ways that research shows deepen and enhance the learning process. In particular, it must support four key components of learning: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real-world experts. Effective technology integration is achieved when the use of technology is routine and transparent and when technology supports curricular goals.” (Edutopia 2008). I think a great way to integrate technology into the classroom is using a class wiki. This facilitates the use of group projects. Students can collaborate with classmates and offer constructive criticism. This also allows parents to see what kids are learning in school. This can give parents a better understanding of the child’s schoolwork, and they can offer more help if needed from home. Technology is a big part in everyone’s future, and teachers should embrace it. (Carvin, 2006)

There are a few important factors that I would want for my ideal classroom. I would like my classroom to be organized in a manner that encourages order, participation, independence and continuous learning. The classroom instruction is well organized, meaningful and allows for student differences. I would like the students to have a space where they are able to work together and collaborate with each other. I think it is important that students have to capability to connect to the internet, so they can display their work for other students to see, and also so their parents know what they are learning about. (Stone, 2009)

Resources:

Carvin, A. (2006, Ocotber 3). Cyberone: A glimpse of the future classroom?. Retrieved from http://www.pbs.org/teachers/learning.now/2006/10/cyberone_the_future_of_educati.html

Edutopia. (2008, March 16). Why integrate technology into the curriculum?: The reasons are many. Retrieved from http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction

Levine, A. (1999, Novemeber 12). Learning occurs on multiple levels. Retrieved from http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/learning/pubs/oct97/li_multi.html

Stone, M. W. (2009, December 22). The ideal classroom. Retrieved from http://www.kidsenabled.org/articles/index.php/200912/the-ideal-classrooom/