According to Karl Kapp, “The issue many forget is that “learning” is not one thing…it is a multi-layered word that tends to get treated as if it were just one thing…and it’s not. It is multi-facetted and that is why developing new models for “learning” is so difficult.” With that being said, I believe that all of the “_isms” that Bill Kerr addresses in his blog need to be implemented into instruction in order to address the diverse learning styles that are entering into classrooms. By incorporating the different learning theories maybe we can start closing the gap and reaching the lower achievers. Kapp also states that “we need to take the best from each philosophy and use it wisely to create solid educational experiences for our learners.” Todays' learners are of the digital age so we as educators must create an environment with innovations that are going to actively engage all learners. When students are “having fun” they are excited about learning which create memorable learning experiences.
Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought (Web log post). Retrieves from http://www.kaplaneduneering.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-discussion-on-educational/
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
Hi Cora,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you statements that you made. It is important to be able to reach the variety of learning styles so that we are able to reach the students and help them in achieving the learning goals. The statement that you made about making learning fun is also important. As educators, it is definitely important to create innovative lessons for the students so that in the end it can help educators to reach many different learning styles.
I could not agree more that innovations lead to enthusiasm and engagement in the classroom. That's why I am interested in learning about educational technology!
ReplyDeleteJulie
Hello Cors,
ReplyDeleteI absolutely agree with you about learning not being just one thing. It is truly multi-facetted. With a variety of learning styles amongst people, it only makes since for educators to differentiate their lessons so that all learners can learn. This is why it's important to understand that there isn't one learning theory, but many that are connected with one another.
I agree with your statement about students having fun while learning (Blades, 2012). I try to make even my college classes fun whenever possible. One question though: Does learning always have to fun to be considered effective? It seems that there are a lot of things that need to be learned that aren't necessary fun. I don't think I had an ounce of fun in Air Force basic training, but I sure learned a lot. Of course, if they had been interested in more than behaviorism, it might have been a little more fun!
ReplyDeleteReference
Blade, C. (2012). Module 2: Cognitivism as a learning theory. Retrieved July 3, 2012, from Cora Blades: http://corablades1.blogspot.com/2012/06/module-2-cognitivism-as-learning-theory.html#comment-form