Month: November 2024

Image from Goodteaching.ca

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the integration of various educational theories and technologies is crucial for creating an inclusive and effective learning environment. This blog post explores how Assistive Technology, Generative AI, Constructivist Theory, the Zone of Proximal Development, Behaviorism, and Collaborative Learning Theory are the foundation for learning success for students.   We will also be discussed under the umbrella of Universal Design for Learning.

Assistive Technology (AT) are tools and devices designed to support students with disabilities, enabling them to participate fully in educational activities. I would also suggest that AT can apply to all students.  All tools at our disposal should be made available to students.  All students can benefit from screen readers and speech-to-text software etc.…   All students are unique, and we need to teach them how to use educational technology tools in a manner that will help them experience success.  Generative AI which is part of AT is not only a technology that can enhance the efficiency of teaching by supporting differentiated instruction and addressing the unique needs of each student.  Furthermore, it should be noted that students need to be taught how to use the educational technology tools in a manner that will promote success in their learning journey.

Constructivist Theory presented in our class pointed out that learners construct knowledge through experiences and interactions with their environment. This approach emphasizes the importance of active learning.  It is critical that we teach students not to fall into the passive learning trap while using technology such as watching videos.  Rather, educational technology, needs to facilitate engagement by providing immersive and experiential learning opportunities.  One such activity that I have had success with is with Minecraft and in tandem with the Zone of Proximal Development theory (ZPD) refers to the range of tasks that a learner can perform with guidance but not yet independently.   Collaborative Learning Theory emphasizes the importance of social interaction and teamwork in the learning process. Have you ever asked a student to concede a digital device at school.  At times there is resistance from students to do so when using Minecraft.   Technology used in a skillful way can help teach students that they can gain insight when they not only concede their device but also their opinion on how the perceive things.  Students need to be encouraged to share ideas and to learn from each other.   Through collaboration an amazing group project in Minecraft for example can be created.   Please don’t forget the importance of behaviorism which focuses on observable behaviors and the use of reinforcement to shape learning.  Educational technology can incorporate behaviorist principles through gamified learning environments.  I have seen the level of engagement from students increase when we use gamification strategies and it is incredible to watch.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework that aims to create flexible learning environments that accommodate the diverse needs of all students. Simply put educational technology will bring a set of new skills that teachers will learn, increased resources that are required for UDL to be successful in reaching all students.  By using educational technology as a lever, educators can ensure that UDL principles are effectively applied, making learning accessible and inclusive for all students.

Picture created by Microsoft Copilot in Bing

The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation pointed out in a news release from February 7^th, 2024, that 2023-24 Teacher staffing levels increased by 10 positions as compared to 2016-17 school year.  This indicates a .1% increase in staffing.  During that same period Saskatchewan’s student population has increased by 15,875 students an increase of 8.8%.  A decrease of professionals such as counsellors, psychologists and speech and language pathologists has also declined more dramatically in one year from the 2022-23 to the 2023-24 school year counsellors have seen a 7.7% reduction and other specialists have declined 15.5%.  What this means is that more issues pertaining to complexity and size is hitting our Saskatchewan classrooms more than ever.

To address the student needs it is going to take a multi-faceted approach.  In this blog I would suggest that one such path would be to implement more Project Based Learning (PBL) and Ed Technology into our classrooms to effectively address the challenges of large class sizes and diverse student needs.  This is done by creating an environment that is engaging, personalized and it’s philosophical foundation is built on collaboration to prepare students for the 21^st century.

The Buck Institute for Education would describe PBL as “A teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and responds to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem or challenge and make their work public.”  In essence PBL promotes “active learning” and relies heavily on inquiry-based learning.  John Dewey considered the grandfather of PBL, firmly believed that the teacher is essential in guiding the student’s learning by creating authentic “need to know” for students.  You want students to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.  The goal is certainly not for students’ lone aspiration is to get a good grade on the test.

The research paper titled, Project-Based Learning Increases Science Achievement in Elementary School and Advances Social and Emotional Learning (Krajcik et al., 2021) found that Social-emotional Learning (SEL), had “significant and positive effects” because of students working together in a collaborative learning environment.  The student indicated that students reported that had an increased appreciation for reflection and collaboration.   This is significant for these highlights sharing of insights and experiences with others is a staple for student growth.

The article “Using Edtech in Service of Human Connections” is a great article.

https://www.edutopia.org/article/how-reduce-edtech-use-schools

This article has pointed out that Ed Technology has skyrocketed since 2018 to present.  In France the use of Ed Technology has more then tripled in that time frame.  Even in my school division I have seen a similar trend regarding use of Ed Technology.  What I like about this article is that it makes the teacher as on simple question.  “Does the tech preserve or enhance human connection in the classroom?  If the technology does not promote interpersonal connection, then what is the purpose?

This is where PBL can support Ed Technology integration into the classroom.   Ed Technology can have an isolating impact on student learning.  This will adversely impact a student’s learning for the are not being exposed to other people’s life experiences.  Conversely, PBL will thrive with the use of Ed Technology for it has the potential to increase collaboration beyond just physical limitations.  It also can showcase each students skill set to their peers.   Truly, together students can achieve magnificent things in their educational journey and within themselves.

One note that the technology integrated in a PBL Model also opens the opportunity to integrate Assistive Technology in the classroom.  Thus all students are able to contribute and share their knowledge and life experience with others.