Cognitivism as a Learning Theory

The discussion concerning cognitivism as a learning theory is an interesting one.  Both authors, Kerr (2007) and Kapp (2007), make the same point about learning.  Learning is a multi layered event; people don’t just learn one thins in isolation, which is used to connect to another event.  Learning theories have a lot of _isms attached to them, but it isn’t a question of one size fits all.  It boils down to we all have our own way of learning.  As a result, how a person learns is key in bringing up test scores, utilizing the proper curriculum for our students and instructional design.  Kerr (2007) wrote that “The learning theory is indispensible to the curriculum reform effort and it is important.  We have to know our students are learning in order to determine the best instructional approach.

References

Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://billkerr2.blogspot.com/2007/01/isms-as-filter-not-blinker.html
Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log post]. Retrieved from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/

EDUC 8845 Blog Responses

Module 1 Blog Response’s

Shirley Brady’s blog

Laura Lee’s Blog

Mrs. Stiff’s Blog

Tiffaney Harrell’s Blog

EDUC 8845 Module 1 Posting

3. Critique Siemen's 'metaphors of educators.' Which of these metaphors best describes the role you believe an instructor should take in a digital classroom or workplace? Is there a better metaphor to reflect your view of the role of instructors?



Each of the metaphors that Siemen lists for educators provide a rationale for a type of instructor.  They all have key aware that do need to be taken into consideration when curriculum is designed for the students.  Educators need to have all of the skills that each metaphor, (Master Artist, Network Administrator, Concierge, and Curator) in order to provide a sound educational experience for their students.  The need to be able to offer and help develop skills for their students such as,  informed perspectives on their work, create learning networks for themselves, providing directions to new resources or opportunities for their educational development, and to have the expertise to offer further insight as to how their knowledge can be connected to prior, current and future learning. (Siemens, 2008).

An instructor in the digital classroom needs to be a curator in my opinion.  The educator needs to have a strong background in the area that they are providing instruction, while being aware of all of the resources available to encourage learning.  This helps the student establish their own learning and encourages them to practice, play and utilize other sources in order to develop their own style of learning. Many of my students come with gaps in their skill development and it my job to find those gaps and close them or provide interventions for them to circumvent them. As a student in the digital world, I know that there are times when I need to know that there is someone to go to in order to help me out when I am using a new piece of technology or program.
I view educators as architects, because I have always viewed myself as a developmentalist.  I discover the students' current levels of learning and develop instruction in order to help that student learn.  Or as in some cases, fill in the gaps of learning that are missing in order to help them establish a firm foundation.  In order to do this I must be aware of all of the materials, curriculum, and technology that are available for the student in order to provide them with the best instruction, while helping them become responsible for their own learning. I think that educators need to be have as many tools in their toolbox in order to provide a sound educational experience for their students.  In our global world we need to solid background.

Reference:

Siemens, G. (2008, January 27). Learning and knowing in networks: changing roles for educators and designers. Paper presented to ITFORUM.Retrieved from http://it.coe uga.edu/itforum/paper105/siemens.pdf. 

new quarter/end quarter

Hi everyone!

The winter quarter classes have ended and I did learn a lot.  However, I am not happy with the progress in one of the classes.  I will resolve that this summer.

The dissertation process is a long one and I need to begin it asap.  In addition, I will be completing my course work and KAMs. 

More technology classes this quarter, writing goals and hopes that all will be successful.

Michelle