The examples mentioned in the resources this week, are excellent ways to use technology and also bridge learning from conceptual one to reality. As Dr. Orey stated in the Laureate DVD, integrating multiple senses in a presentation improves learning. I try to engage the learner by utilizing multiple methodologies and also incorporate ways to aid the various learning styles in front of me. I have found my freshman need to use graphic organizers more in the beginning of the year to organize various amounts data. The students need to "map" out the concept to organize their thoughts and the connections between the various material. Concept maps support dual coding and support the connections between the ideas (Laurate, 2008). As the year progresses, they adapt to the various amounts of information presented and am able to integrate other Web 2.0 technologies and various other methodologies to support student learning.
Virtual field trips are another excellent way to increase student learning especially in a science classroom. Students can see and interact in a reality that can be dangerous without ever leaving the classroom. I am currently looking at new virtual lab software to aid absent students and those oposed to animal disection. This allows the students to "do" the lab and learn content without ever coming in contact with and organism. I am also looking into this for the Chemistry sections of my Physical Science classes. This will allow for greater understanding of volital elements & materials without having them in the building or disposing of them.
Reference
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
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