Jasmine L Turner, AspireSTAR
Learning theory and Educational technology:
Learning theory explores how we learn; varying perspectives shape the way educators design curriculum and instruction. We can overcome the problems we face in education today by using technology to address academic achievement for the individual student but, we must consider the role of educational technology in the learning process. Greater understanding of the learning process is important to developing curriculum and instruction for all learners.
The evolution of educational technology reflects the application of learning theory to meet mandates for innovations in education US Department of Education, Innovation. Educators who embrace behavioral perspectives of learning like Pavlov, Thorndike, and Skinner (1920’s to 1950’s) contribute to today’s practice of using criterion-referenced assessment, performance objectives, and mastery learning in online tutorials. Likewise, cognitive beliefs of Ausubel, Bandura, and Gagné (1760’s to 1980’s) support the traditional use of inductive learning, advanced organizers, and visual aids. In addition, more modern constructivist such as Bruner, Piaget, and Vygotsky (1990’s to 2000’s) are responsible for current use of simulations, collaboration, and meaningful learning environments.
Perspectives of learning suggest that students learn best through mastery (behavioral), guided practice (cognitive), and collaboration (constructivist) Learning Theory Matrix. In the digital age, learning theory is applied to designing curriculum and instruction for students who connect in a global community. Educational technology allows for the growth and development of educational systems that address the individual learner through multimedia applications tailored to individual needs. Although technology is driven by advance use of tools and resources, antiquated theoretical perspectives of teaching and learning teaching can lead to methodologies that prevent educational systems from functioning with 21st century speed. Contemporary educational theorist, such as George Siemens and Stephen Downes, suggests Connectivism as a learning theory geared towards the Digital Age (Siemens, 2004).
This theoretical perspective considers 21st century technologies impact on the learning process by considering non-human appliances, current knowledge, and decision-making skills. As educators embrace new ideas of how we learn, educational technology can be designed based on 21st century theory and practice for digital natives (Tapscott,1998). Modern learning theory suggests that digital natives learn best in an environment that promotes creativity (connectivity) Learning Theory for the Digital Age. The information age has changed the process of increasing knowledge and skills for today’s learners. Educational technology shapes the role of the individual student in the family unit, workplace, and global society. Through edutainment, (educational entertainment technology) expression of creativity to increase knowledge acquisition, skill development, and individual enjoyment.
Students learn best when they are "Edutained".
Students learn best when they are "Edutained".
References:
Saettler, P. (2004). The evolution of American educational technology. Greenwich, CT: Information Age Publishing.
Tapscott, D. (1998). Growing up digital: The rise of the net generation. New York: McGraw-Hill.
Toffler, A. (1980). The third wave. New York: Bantam.
Siemens, G. (2004). A Learning Theory for the Digital Age. Retrieved from elearnspace.org/Articles/connectivism.htm
Module 1: How do people learn best?
J. Turner, Aspire STAR comments @
I completely agree with you post and I love the way you merged words to reflect the combined concept of entertainment in education. It is well known that students learn best when motivated, the problem most educators have is understanding that learners today are bombarded with entertainment. This entertainment grabs their attention and in order for educators today to meet students learning need we have to be able to use technology to add educational entertainment to our pedagogy. Great Post I will definitely continue to follow your well written blog.
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