Technology Reflection Assignment

 

Description/Experience

     The last seminar involved a technology called “EdModo”, a social networking style educational tool in which educators are responsible for uploading content for students to see, interact with, be tested on, and receive grades. These students are invited to the website via code, and can upload a profile, change their profile image, and customize their space to a reasonable degree. This provides an off-campus rapport between the student and educator, and makes asking questions about relevant content much easier and speedy. I took from this that students greatly enjoy Facebook and other similar tools, so there is a high probability they would like this as well.

Application

      I would create an activity in which students were given a list of relevant content terms, and tasked with not only being able to define the terms, but also be able to explain their historical relevance. and match them to an image. For time’s sake, the list will be short. Students can use a class set of iPads (available at UHS) to find images, sign up for EdModo, and research relevant information. The data can then be compiled and submitted via EdModo.

Learning outcomes: Students will gain a better understanding of key terms in history as well as use technology to represent history visually (images), and further understanding of technology.

Learners:  11-12^th grade students.

Assessment: Students will post their definitions and images to the EdModo website for assessment.

 

Reflection

Pedagogy-Content:

            I would use the analogies of a photo album and facebook in order to illustrate both the activity and EdModo, respectively. Facebook is similar to EdModo, and most students have used Facebook. A photo album (annotated) would be an example to represent the terms activity, as most students are familiar with uploading pictures to websites such as Facebook.

            Some students will already know how to use EdModo and know some of these terms as well. However, reviewing information in this manner is important for comprehending the historical relevance of certain terms.         

Technology:

            EdModo is an easy to use and find website that will facilitate this activity. Students can find it with a simple Google search or URL manipulation. Signing up is easy and free, and students can collaborate with one another via the website.

            The function of the technology is to create an online space for a classroom in which teachers and students can interact in an organized, interactive, and educational environment. The website allows students to customize their space, submit their assignments, and receive grades. Educators can also collaborate with other educators in order to gain insight and new ideas.

Technology-Pedagogy:

            This technology would be used for assessment of the activity. Classroom management issues arise such as students slacking off or playing games on the computers/iPads, so careful monitoring must be in place. Also, the class website should be monitored for vulgar content.

Technology-Content:

            This technology will help students inquire about historical terms while researching and seeing information visually. Also, the technology can provide a means of collaboration outside the classroom.

            Students will now practice this information through self inquiry on the internet, then submit it online. This uses multiple sources rather than just the textbook.

Technology-Pedagogy-Content:

            The content can effectively be taught using EdModo, the internet, and effective instruction on how to use the above technologies. This coupled with student research drives the lesson.

            This technology allows students to research for themselves rather than an educator/textbook lecturing. Online submission is engaging for students, and feedback is easier and more quickly dispersed.

      When students have trouble understanding concepts, I can post relevant links to the class page on EdModo in order to guide learning, without giving answers out freely. In addition, this can be used to ask deep-thought questions about the content, and assess student learning.