Week 3-Chp. 1 Goal of Technology Integrations: Meaningful Learning

Choose two characteristics from the model of meaningful learning on p. 3, and describe how technology can be used to promote these two characteristics. Give specific examples.

• Constructive (Articulative/Reflective)- This attribute focuses on constructivism. When students or learners (as the chapter calls them) begin to create their own models to explain what they learn, they begin to create meaning through this process. One way technology can be used to promote this characteristic is by having students generate thinking maps to demonstrate how they would explain a particular concept they have learned. For example students can choose from the following graphic organizers or a combine them (also called thinking maps) to explain or teach. The software I like to use to teach my students is called Inspiration8. Not only do they enjoy it, but they look forward to present their thinking. These are the thinking maps I teach my students how to create. Once they learn how to use the software, they decide which to use to create on a particular assignment.

Intentional (Goal-Directed/Regulatory) – This characteristic says that when “learners use computers to do skillful planning for doing everyday tasks…they are intentional and are learning meaningfully.” Since I teach ELLs, and most of them have very little knowledge of basic computer skills, the first task I have for them is to be able to use a basic Word document to create something basic. Some examples include: writing poetry, a short scary story using a template, and answer questions in complete sentences. These assignments include inserting graphics, spell checking and basic typing skills. Some students catch on quickly and others don’t. Most of them enjoy using technology. Another example is the use of a Discussion board (blog) on a particular novel we are reading in class. Students learn from each other by replying to a fellow student about what is being read in class.