Using Digital Media in the Classroom

Using digital media in the classroom is awesome!! It allows access to a variety of delivery methods to enhance instruction including images, current events, games, videos, simulations, blogs, data sets, and more. (Cruse The benefits to student learning are many: developing a common base of knowledge among students, accommodating diverse learning styles, enhancing class discussions, and increasing student motivation. In my own teaching experience I've found that the greater the variety of presentations and activities, the higher the level of student engagement and interest.

References

Cruse, E. Using Educational Video in the Classroom: theory, Research and Practice [Electronic Version]. Library Video Company.

Grunwald Associates LLC (2009). Digitally Inclined [Electronic Version]. PBS

Movie of Whale Songs

In the Language curriculum, we read several stories about whale songs. My students have a very specific idea about what a song is. They cannot grasp what a whale song is. This video shows a whale and the audio enables us to hear what a whale song sounds like.

Theory of Learning

Everyone learns in their own, unique way. As a teacher, one must utilize as many different forms of instruction as possible in an attempt to reach each learner, whether it's through visuals, speaking, text, action or music.

I believe that no matter what vehicle of instruction is used, learners must go through a process in order to learn a new concept. Merely seeing or hearing or reading something one time is not usually enough. Learners must be exposed to the concept, then think about it; review it; let the brain process it. Allow the concept to connect with other ideas in the mind. The next step is to apply the new knowledge. This is when the learners realize how well (or not) they truly understand. It's very helpful to gain feedback on one's application in order to make improvements or refine. Then apply it again.

See the slideshow of 21st Century Skills in Quicktime!