Reflection of course

My personal learning theory has been derived from my own experiences as a student. When I was a student in elementary school I remember that I learned best when I was safe and comfortable in my learning environment. I also noted that it was easier for me to retain information when I was familiar with the topics that I was being taught. This concept, of being familiar with the subject matter and building knowledge on prior experiences directly corresponds with Vygotsky’s cognitive learning theory (Duffy, J., & McDonald, J., 2008).
I often do use some elements of behaviorism, such as tutorials and reward systems (Duffy, J., & McDonald, J., 2008) in my kindergarten classroom. However I mostly I aim to facilitate independent learning experiences in my students where I build on their prior knowledge and social experiences. I also stress the importance of looking at each child as an individual who learns distinctively (Dahms, Geonnotti, Passalacqua. Schilk, Wetzel, & Zulkowsky, 2007); which also relates to the theory of cognitive learning. My students get to exercise this individuality during literacy centers where I often make changes to the learning environment to facilitate engaging learning experiences based on their individual learning styles (M. Orey, 2001). In contrast to literacy centers that contain pencil and paper activities, puzzles, and manipulatives, I have incorporated an approach by which I have integrated technology whenever possible as does my fellow classmate, Cindy who states that she I learned that with certain students, it helps to have an open mind and take advantage of motivation when you see it. Cindy and I have learned since our students use technology on a regular basis by way of iPods, and other media devices, it is like second nature for then to be positively engaged in the learning process using these same forms of media. This method has helped me to effectively use technology to support and facilitate learning.
This course has enabled me with tools that I never knew existed. For my long term goals I plan to incorporate voice thread in my lesson plans whenever I can. Using this tool, I hope to bridge the gap between home and school as parents work with me to create interactive stories online. This will also be a great way for our many deployed parents to be an active part of their child’s education. I will continue my education so that I am able to bring technology to my students even at the lower elementary level. I am excited to continue to explore the seemingly endless possibilities for my students and myself.

Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.

Lever-Duffy, J. & McDonald, J. (2008). Theoretical Foundations (Laureate Education, Inc., custom ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.

M. Dahms, K. Geonnotti, D. Passalacqua. J. N. Schilk, A. Wetzel,
and M. Zulkowsky. (2007) The Educational Theory of Lev Vygotsky: an analysis.
New Foundations Gary K. Clabaugh, EdD, & Edward G. Rozycki, EdD, Editors.
Retreived July 5, 2009 from
http://www.newfoundations.com/GALLERY/Vygotsky.html.

Perucco, C. (2009, July 5). Response to Vannette. Message posted to EDUC 6711 discussion board, Week 1.