EDT Direction

Three emerging technologies I might be able to apply in my current position is virtual worlds, digital games or simulation and networks or Web 2.0.  As a teacher these three options seem to be the most engaging for my students and if the student is engaged then learning is happening. 

Virtual world – Virtual worlds allow students to explore multiple competencies in learning in one setting.  The ability to move through a problem on the way to a solution from an active point of view lends itself to the ultimate goal of discovery based learning. 

Digital games or simulation – Digital games and simulation mediums follow the same aspect as the virtual world, but has a few additional advantages that start with the probable cost issues that would be incurred from a more expensive virtual world platform that I suspect would be present.  DG and Simulations also hold a more familiar feel to them that children have already been exposed to and that many thrive within.

Networks or Web 2.0 – These media devices are the driving force behind the “Flipped Classroom” craze that has taken differentiated learning to new heights and allowed students to be in the driver’s seat concerning their learning.  When students take ownership of their learning there is no ceiling to what they can master.

The learning goals these three new technologies could foster would be tremendous in education for adults and students alike.  It takes great strides to put students in a more determining role of their learning.  Children already come to school with an innate since of technology so allowing them to drive the learning only makes sense.  They have practically used technology since infancy and they are more technologically savvy than most adults today so it only makes since to use technology in the classroom to bring their learning to a medium that they already understand and have a skill within.

All of these technologies could facilitate an attainment of learning better that traditional instruction.  Studies have proven that lecturing tends to turn people off quickly and that only approximately 10 percent of what a teacher says is actually accepted whereas the added visual and kinesthetic aspects of learning afforded by these IDT’s will increase the learning exponentially.

I think that that these IDT applications can offer a valuable learning and diversity for students that will offer a more enthusiastic and excited learning opportunities. 

The learning styles of yesterday can be appealing for a short duration but the use of technology will allow students to explore more and reach a greater understanding of knowledge.  Students can learn from these experiences and move outside the limitations of yesterday. Technology allows today's learners to be more innovative and think outside the box exploring and using their imagination to think well beyond what we can imagine today.