Response to blogs-module 4

I responded to the following blogs for module 4:

http://jgilmorehenry.wordpress.com/

http://mariadoloresjardim.blogspot.com/

http://darlingtonsblog.blogspot.com/

Graphic Organizer-Reflection for Module 4

  

     Technological tools available today allow facilitators and learners to enhance the learning environment with differentiated instruction characterized by interactivity engagement. Widely adopted innovations such as email and instant messaging equip users with the ability to communicate and collaborate at real time speed. These adoptions are considered norms in any workplace setting and still are seen as relevant. Another innovation becoming more prominent in school environments are the use of podcasts and online video for classroom facilitation and professional development for instructors. These tools allow individuals to access information at their convenience. In addition, these tools equip users with the ability to pause and replay when clarification is needed. Also, user-generated tools such as blogs and wikis allow users to present information and perspectives in a manner this is individualized and useful. Bringing these tools into classrooms (online or traditional) will allow users to access a wealth of insight and knowledge on designated topics and aid in collaborative efforts facilitated by instructors. In addition, social networking innovations such as Skype allow users to chat, SMS, call, or video call peers or cohort members to network, discuss, and collaborate regarding project based learning assignments and discussions. This innovation is useful to classroom (online and traditional) because it allows users to participate in collaborative activities with global users.

Responses to storyboard-Module 3

I responded to the following storyboards:

http://mariadoloresjardim.blogspot.com/

http://twrighteduc.blogspot.com/

http://darlingtonsblog.blogspot.com/2011/04/virtual-worlds-storyboard.html?

Response to Module 3 blogs

This week I commented of the following blogs:

http://twrighteduc.blogspot.com/

http://edutechtalk.blogspot.com/

Module 3-Assessing Collaborative Efforts

Palloff and Pratt (2005) report, "In order to assess student performance in collaborative activity, the instructor needs to understand basic principles of assessment" (p. 41). Appropriate facilitation and learning expectations/outcomes regarding content areas should be detailed for the collaborative learning community. Also, ongoing communication and feedback are essential components of learning communities. Feeling a sense of belonging increases participant buy-in, yielding a rich learning environment. Rubrics are needed for students and teachers to ensure fair and equal treatment of all collaborative community members. Students should review scoring rubrics prior to assignments and after receipt of grades for designated assignments. Rubrics enable teachers and students to measure their level of knowledge and skills regarding discussions and assignments. "It is important to include some form of evaluation at the close of any collaborative event or activity in an online class" (Palloff & Pratt, 2005, p. 23).

Another necessary component of effective learning communities is engagement. Participants must work to achieve goals; therefore, norms and rules must be established at the start of collaborative activities. Palloff and Pratt (2007) indicate, "creating a community is a mutually empowering act-a means by which people share with each other, work, and live collaboratively" (p. 28). If  a group member does not participate/network appropriately, group members should reach out to the non-participant and try to determine how they may assist and aid in struggles. If unresolved, conflict may surface and deteriorate the bond of the group; therefore, instructors must intervene to deter negative behavior and reinforce consequences regarding lack of participation in collaborative environment. Moreover, lack of participation in collaborative learning communities will result in decreased grades and negative feedback from instructors and peers.


References:

Palloff, R. & Pratt, K. (2005). Collaborating online:  Learning together in community. San Francisco, CA:  Jossey-Bass.
Palloff, R. & Pratt, K. (2007). Building online learning communities:  Effective strategies for the virtual classroom (2nd ed.). San Francisco, CA:  Jossey-Bass.

Storyboard for Multimedia Presentation-EDUC 7102

Response to post-module 2

I responded to the following blogs during module 2:

http://edutechtalk.blogspot.com/2011/03/collaborative-interaction-tools.html

http://twrighteduc.blogspot.com/2011/03/elements-of-distance-education.html

http://dorothyrape.wordpress.com/

http://lcordell.wordpress.com/