Stacey's+Page

"What does this article teach us about learning?" (Community Space)
 * the idea that "people construct new knowledge and understanding based on what they know and believe" made me think of the importance of connecting to my students prior knowledge and experiences to bring a deeper meaning and understanding of the curriculum.
 * the nature of learning has changed so dramatically over the years, from memorizing facts, to becoming critical thinkers and problem solvers. Information is growing at such a rapid rate that it is crucial for students of today to learn the skills required to sift through the mass volumes of information and think critically about the world around them.

"How do I understand learning to occur?"
 * I believe that students need a lot of varied instructional strategies if I am going to meet the needs of all of my students.
 * After doing the readings and reflecting on my own experiences, I believe that students learn best when they are able to share, collaborate, and share ideas with their peers to talk about their ideas and thinking as they make new connections and construct new knowledge.

"How does what we have explored relate to learning and teaching with technology?"
 * As an educator, I see the value in using technology in the classroom.
 * As a student, I wonder if my own students see the value in the technology as a tool to further their understanding, or if they see the technology as "entertainment" value, and are pulled in by the games, video and music rather than the capacity for technology to help enrich their education and understanding.
 * I am still a bit overwhelmed by implementing technology within my own practice, given the amount of times the technology fails, or the amount of added/changed management that is needed within the class when working with technology.