Before enrolling in Walden’s distance educational program I would say that I am defiantly a user of static technology. I say this because static technologies generally “mimic the traditional classroom or teacher-led instruction” (Moller, 2008, pg. 1). In this kind of classroom, textbooks and lectures are heavily utilized. Static technologies provide learners with the opportunity to take ownership of their learning. However, now that I am in my fourth distance learning course at Walden, I am rapidly moving in the direction of dynamic technologies. I would say that I am approximately at the midway point heading in the direction of dynamic technologies. Moller (2008), states that “the dynamic end of the interactivity continuum includes tools that involve learners on a much deeper cognitive level” (pg. 1). Being a gifted endorsed teacher my students are encouraged to think outside of the norm. So in order for them to become critical thinkers, I have to incorporate a variety of hands on activities where they are creating and constructing new knowledge.
Dynamic technologies opens the door for those students who are the risk takers and who are not afraid to show their creative side. Walden has allowed me to enter the world of dynamic technologies through innovations like blogging, discussion forums, wikis, and Skype. So as I continue moving forward I am looking forward to using mindtools, virtual simulations, and gaming. By the end of this program, I hope to have gained a wealth of knowledge and resources that will take my students and I to the next level of dynamic technologies.
Reference
Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tools. [Unpublished Paper].
Hi Cora,
ReplyDeleteI think that I too had to make some adjustments as I began my studies at Walden University. I learned how to use technologies in a dynamic way or utilize them in the academic area in a dynamic way. I have come to a realization that it isn't the technology that is static but how the user uses the technology. Have you found that some of the same technologies you were using in a static fashion you now use in a dynamic manner?
Yes, it's funny how stactic and dynamic technologies can intertwine depending on how advanced you are the direction of dynamic technology.
ReplyDeleteI keep hearing that online games are a great way to teach, but I haven't found any "good" ones yet. Most are very low tech, boring, or look too much like an educational game. Do you know if there are any good education games where the academic part is disguised?
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