Instructional Design Reflection
- Raquel Kokani
- Aug 9, 2021
- 2 min read
INTRODUCTION
In our school, we have 1:1 iPads in Pre-K-12th grade. Since the pandemic, we have been using technology more than ever in the classroom. Students coming into kindergarten are more aware of how to utilize iPads since they have been exposed to them in Pre-K. Kindergarten students must be able to use grade level appropriate apps and games when using an iPad. Students will have a chance to use iPads to close achievement gaps. We waste a lot of time trying to play games that sometimes are not on their level. The course I designed helps kindergarten students pick app and games that are appropriate to use in school.
Instructional Design Theories
Learning theories have evolved from behaviorism to constructivism. I would say I as a kindergarten teacher, I try relying on a little of everything to survive a typical school day.
I would say that the constructivism theory lends itself to the development of an online learning environment. Learning from experience, through collaboration, and background knowledge. In my course, I want students to gain confidence, learn from peers, learn social skills, let them play! My job is to help facilitate learning, not overwhelm them with information.
UbD Plan Implementation
Having previously created a UbD plan really helped shape my online course. I used the plan to create my course, it was the foundation I needed to get my ideas off the ground. The plan helped me plan how students would learn to navigate apps and games that are appropriate.
Importance of Online Learning
As I myself have navigated the DLL online, I see the importance of online learning across different levels of education. Using the appropriate platform or LMS is key to the success of online learning. Blackboard took some time for me to figure out, but now I enjoy using it and learning through it. I started my course on Google Classroom, just because I thought it would be easy for my professor to navigate. As I started to work, it only made sense to switch to Seesaw because it is what my actual students will get to use. It is user friendly and age appropriate for my students.
Enduring Understanding
As intimidating as it was to even phantom the idea of creating a course, I did it. I was really overwhelmed and could not wrap my head around the idea of making my own course. The fact that I had a UbD plan really helped me and gave me the confidence to move forward. I take away the importance of looking at your audience and making sure it is appropriate and useful. I did have to scrap my first choice of LMS and really stick to what is going to help my students learn and grow at their own pace, through Seesaw. Taking a step back, realizing you can change something to better fit the needs of your students is important moving forward.
Comments