App Reviews - Shelena Cofield

ISTE Student Standard-Curate Information, 1.3c, Students curate information from digital resources using a variety of tools and methods to create collections of artifacts that demonstrate meaningful connections or conclusions.

Trello Educational Review - https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/trello-organize-anything

Trello is easy to use and provides a simplistic way to plan and organize virtually anything. Even though it is designed to manage teams, tasks, and tools, it most certainly can be used to assist in collaboration and organization of content. Users create cards to house information of any kind: text, images, checklists, links, etc. Users simply create a board, add lists for different types of content to be collected, and then enter content. Cards may be arranged and organized freely, providing powerful visualization of the content. Trello is free for individuals/teams to organize any project, and it includes up to 10 boards, unlimited cards, unlimited storage, unlimited Power-Ups per board, 2-factor authentication, and more. Paid versions are available for additional functionality, but they are not necessary as the free version is quite generous. The intended age group is 12 and up. Trello is available via web browser or mobile app for both iOS and Android. The review listed above is from the Educational AppStore, which aids parents and educators by reviewing and recommending educational apps and websites. The Educational AppStore uses certified professional teachers to review and certify websites and apps which lends itself to credibility and reliability.

Evernote Educational Review - https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/evernote

Evernote provides a way to save ideas, notes, web links, images, PDFs, and more on any computer or phone. One can even email notes, printed or handwritten, to a personalized Evernote email address. Important documents can be scanned and saved within Evernote. Evernote promotes productivity by providing users with a way to get things done by organization of tasks, notes, and schedules, all in one place. It is easy to clip web pages and mark them up with arrows, highlights, and text. All saved information is synchronized across multiple devices allowing ease of access anywhere. The free version provides note-taking capabilities, synchronization of up to 2 devices, 60MB of uploads, a Home dashboard with 3 widgets, the ability to clip web pages, and allowance of attachments such as PDFs, photos, images, documents, and files. The paid versions allow connection of a Google Calendar account, management of tasks, offline access, powerful search options, custom templates, integration with other software (Microsoft Teams, Slack, etc.) and much more. While Evernote is designed for adults, children under age 16 may use it with parental consent. The Common Sense review states the app is recommended for students in 6^th grade and above. Evernote is compatible with the following device operating systems: Mac, Windows, iOS (iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch), and Android. Common Sense is credible because they review technology with kids in mind and suggest learning tools that prepare students and teachers for technological success. Additionally, they provide information for families and teachers to choose high-quality, age-appropriate, and diverse content for kids that supports well-being while safeguarding privacy and support healthy media and technology.

OneNote Educational Review - https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/microsoft-onenote

OneNote is note-taking software included in Microsoft’s 365 suite of products. It allows for organization of information into sections and pages within a notebook and includes easy navigation and search capabilities. Users can enter text and highlight or add ink annotations. OneNote provides the capability to clip and save from the web, record audio notes, insert online videos, and add files. Notebooks are synchronized across all devices and allow sharing and collaboration with others. OneNote is free to download and use, but there are premium features, like collaboration with other users, that can only be unlocked with a Microsoft 365 subscription of $69.99/year. The Common Sense review states the app is recommended for students in 6^th grade and above. OneNote works on Windows, Apple, or Android devices. Common Sense’s credibility is directly related to them being a leading source of technology recommendations for families and schools since 2003; they are an independent, nonprofit, and research backed organization focused on helping parents and educators navigate the digital world with children in mind.

All three educational apps are beneficial and may be more useful depending on what content is to be curated. If I had to choose one app, however, it would be OneNote because so many schools are Microsoft 365 schools and already include access to its entire suite of software. There is a lot of continuity and power in collaboration amongst the Microsoft products. Also, OneNote is easier to use and lacks the complexity and initial learning-curve that both Evernote and Trello present to new and younger users.

App Review

HEK.2: Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology, and other factors on health behaviors. 

 

Google Classroom

 

Google classroom is a platform that allows teachers to post assignments, test, quizzes, and all other school related activities.  Many of the schools in the United States has switched to Google Classroom during the pandemic and the app is user-friendly.  This is a user-friendly app because of the use of Google within our everyday lives.  Google classroom can be used by anyone from K-12 but it is a reliable platform for high school students.  

 

Google classroom can be assessed on many different devices such as computers, tablets, iPads, and/or cell phones.  This app is free within the Google Play store.  For pricing for Google Classroom, they start at $0 and go up to $3 per student/per year for each to have their own Workspace.  This will give them access to all Google Classroom platforms that is needed to successfully use this app.

 

https://www.trustradius.com/products/google-classroom/pricing

 

Quizlet

 

Quizlet is a website that has modernized index cards.  Traditionally, we would write a question on the front of an index card and put the correct answer on the back.  This was a way for students to gain knowledge in their studies, but Quizlet gives that platform by using the website.  There is a wide range of subject that are on Quizlet and many of those have test/quizzes to help students gain knowledge on a subject.  You can use Quizlet on the computer, cell phone, or tablet to review material.  Quizlet is a free platform, but you can pay $35.99 to unlock hidden features.

 

https://quizlet.com/upgrade

 

Kahoot!

 

Kahoot is a great learning platform for students to visually see things.  You can have live games, quizzes, voting, survey’s and much more.  In the classroom setting you can post live quizzes and have up to 40 players participate in the game for the podium of three places.  Like the apps above this is another user-friendly app and has free features and a premium feature as well.  The Kahoot! 360 Standard starts at $17 a month and has a Kahoot! 360 Pro Max that is $69 a month.  You can use Kahoot on the computer, cell phone, or tablet to play games and review lessons.

 

 

https://kahoot.com/business/pricing/

 

In my opinion I like to use Google Classroom because of the access it gives you to your students.  As a high school PE/Health teacher, it allows us to give directions for all students that are present and not present on each day.  This platform also allows the parents to check their child’s missing assignments, future assignments, and current grades.  Lastly, Google Classroom gives you the access to place your Kahoot! and Quizlet lesson in your classroom for students to review in the future.

App Review-YoLandra Ball

 

Grades 6-12

Grammarly

Grammarly is an application that helps students improve their writing skills by identifying grammar and spelling errors and suggesting ways to improve sentence structure and overall writing style. This app can be handy for middle school students who are just starting to develop their writing skills, as it provides them with immediate feedback and guidance that can help them to become more effective writers.

I became interested in Grammarly due to my extensive language and text analysis training. I can provide information on Grammarly's platform and device compatibility.

Grammarly is a widely used writing assistance tool compatible with various platforms and devices. Here's a brief overview of its compatibility:

Web Browser: Grammarly offers a web-based editor that can be accessed through popular web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge. This means you can use Grammarly on almost any computer with internet access.

Desktop Applications: Grammarly also provides desktop applications for both Windows and macOS. These applications can be integrated into popular word-processing software such as Microsoft Word and Outlook. This allows you to use Grammarly directly within these applications for real-time grammar and writing suggestions.

Mobile Devices: Grammarly has mobile apps for both iOS and Android platforms. You can download and install the Grammarly keyboard, which provides grammar and spell check suggestions while typing on your mobile device, ensuring that your writing is error-free on the go.

Email Integration: Grammarly can be integrated with various email services like Gmail and Outlook. This allows you to check and enhance the quality of your emails before sending them.

Online Platforms: Grammarly is compatible with various online platforms, including social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. It can help you compose error-free posts and messages on these platforms.

In summary, Grammarly is designed to be useful and available across various platforms and devices, making it a valuable tool for individuals looking to improve their writing skills and ensure grammatical accuracy in various contexts.

https://www.grammarly.com/plans

Quizlet

Quizlet is a study tool that helps students to memorize and review information for tests and quizzes. The app allows students to create digital science-backed flashcards, practice tests, and expert solutions to improve their grades, enhance their memory, and reach their goals. From subjects like basic mathematics to engineering to modern languages, students are using Quizlet for more than 100 different subjects. Quizlet is an excellent resource for middle school students looking to improve their study habits and prepare for exams more effectively.

Quizlet is a widely used platform for creating and studying flashcards and other learning materials. It offers compatibility with various devices and platforms to ensure accessibility for users. As for your question about platform/device compatibility, I can discuss this briefly.

Educators are leaving the field of education due to increased workload and burnout, which is impaired by the challenges of adapting to technology platforms like Quizlet.

My interest in this topic branches from the growing concern about educator burnout and the role that technology plays in the modern classroom. Many educators are faced with the task of combining digital tools like Quizlet into their teaching methods. While these tools offer great benefits in terms of commitment and accessibility, they also come with a learning curve and potential additional workload. This can lead to increased stress and burnout among educators, ultimately contributing to some leaving the field of education.

Cost:

https://quizlet.com/upgrade?source=header_plus&redir=%2Flatest

Google Classroom

Teachers can create and manage online classrooms, assignments, and discussions using the Google Classroom platform. This application is designed to be a user-friendly and easy-to-navigate unified platform that provides students with a centralized location to access all their class reference materials and assignments. Google Classroom is a valuable resource for middle school students looking to stay organized and connected with their classmates and teachers.

Google Classroom is designed to be accessible on a variety of devices, including:

Computers: Google Classroom can be accessed through web browsers on Windows and Mac computers. It is compatible with popular web browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and Microsoft Edge.

Smartphones: Google Classroom has dedicated mobile apps for both Android and iOS devices. You can download the Google Classroom app from the respective app stores.

Tablets: You can also access Google Classroom on tablets, including Android tablets and iPads, through the mobile app or a web browser.

Chromebooks: Google Classroom is optimized for use on Chromebooks, which are popular in educational settings. It offers seamless integration with these devices.

Other Devices: While the primary focus is on the platforms mentioned above, you can also access Google Classroom on other devices with compatible web browsers, although the user experience may vary.

Google is known for its commitment to making its services widely accessible, especially in the field of education. This compatibility across devices ensures that students and educators can access Google Classroom on the devices that are most convenient for them, whether it's a computer, smartphone, tablet, or Chromebook.

Cost:

Google Classroom is a free online learning platform that integrates with G Suite applications. As part of Google for Educators, it has a wide breadth of capabilities.

There are three paid plans:

Google Workspace for Education Standard – This plan costs $3 per student, per year and includes all the features of the Fundamentals platform, plus a security center, advanced device and app management features, Gmail, and Classroom logs for export into BigQuery, and audit logs.

Teaching and Learning Upgrade – This plan costs $4 per license, per month and includes all the features of the Google Workspace for Education Standard, plus advanced Google Meet features (e.g., meetings with up to 250 participants, interactive Q&As, breakout rooms), unlimited originality reports and the ability to check for peer matches across a personal source.

Google Workspace for Education Plus – This plan costs $5 per student, per year and includes all the features of the other plans, plus live streams with up to 100,000 in-domain viewers, syncing rosters from SISs to Google Classroom, personalized cloud search, and prioritized support.

https://www.trustradius.com/products/google-classroom/pricing

Grammarly is the best app for education because it helps students and educators improve their writing skills, develops the quality of academic papers, and provides valuable feedback on grammar and style. Grammarly's features make it a useful tool for education by helping students to ensure the honesty of their work. For example, Grammarly provides detailed feedback on writing, explaining why certain suggestions are made. This can be a beneficial learning tool for students, helping them understand and avoid recurring writing mistakes.

 

 

 

App Reviews- Ashley Clingan

 

ISTE Standard 1.1: Students leverage technology to take an active role in choosing, achieving, and demonstrating

competency in their learning goals, informed by the learning sciences.
 
https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/seesaw
 
Seesaw is an educational app for elementary students that includes many features. It is a digital portfolio that highlights student engagement. It allows students to show what they have learned by creating and uploading photos, drawings, and videos. For schools, Seesaw starts at $120 per year. It is compatible with Android 7 and newer, as well as iOS 13 and newer. Common Sense Education is a credible source for reviewing and rating educational technology tools.
 
 
https://index.edsurge.com/product/ultid/P3C4-C89D-11A4-B4C9-8D/
 
Kahoot is an app that makes learning fun and interactive! It features games, quizzes, polls, and more. It fosters learning by allowing students to compete against each other which encourages active participation from everyone. It has many positives for teachers as well, including providing immediate feedback, being user-friendly, and providing formative assessments. Buying Kahoot Pro for a school starts at $17.49 per teacher per month. It can be used by kids and adults of all ages! EdSurge is a credible source for reviewing educational apps. It focuses on education, is updated regularly, and explains in detail how they evaluate products.
 
 
https://www.educationworld.com/app-review-nearpod-ipadipod
 
Nearpod is an educational app that allows teachers to deliver lessons in many different engaging ways. Teachers can create their own lessons, games, and assessments. These creations can be shared with other teachers in the school and district. Nearpod facilitates active participation and makes learning interactive! It provides immediate feedback and data that is great for formative assessments and planning future instruction. Nearpod for individual educators is free and is intended for learners of all ages. Education World is a credible review site because it has been around for a long time, it offers a wide range of resources, and it is updated regularly. It’s contributors are experienced educators and administrators.
 
In my opinion, Nearpod is the best choice of my three educational apps. I think this because there are so many different ways it can be utilized. Teachers can collaborate and share lessons with one another, collect data, and foster teamwork within their classroom. Another cool thing about Nearpod is that it can be used in unison with platforms such as Google Classroom and Canvas. Nearpod is a great way to engage students and excite them about learning, along with empowering them to use technology effectively.
 

Theories of Critical Thinking Blog Post

Digital literacy is a concept that I introduce and, hopefully, something my students will be familiar with before the end of the semester.  A lot of the assignments in the courses I teach require students to analyze information from various websites on the internet to support their arguments.  During this process, it's my responsibility to ensure they are knowledgeable about authorship and what that means for those items they find on the internet. In Hobbs's article, "Empowering Learners with Digital and Media Literacy," she mentions the need for support of librarians through recommendation seven of the Knight Commission: "Fund and support public libraries and other community institutions as centers of digital and media training, especially for adults" (Hobbs 15).  I couldn't do all this teaching of digital literacy if it wasn't for the support of my university's librarians.  The librarians are willing to put together presentations for my asynchronous courses which help my students figure out their responsibility in ethical use of materials on the internet and how to determine if a source is credible, etc.  

Huitt's take on Bloom's taxonomy in his article, "Bloom et al.'s Taxonomy of the Cognitive Domain," is an interesting read, especially when placed in the sphere of students learning with and through technology.  If we, the educators, believe that students learn differently, then we cannot hold students to the same standards across the board.  Some students might have the cognitive ability to synthesize information enough to create new connections in the subject area.  On the other hand, some students are more prone to know the information well enough for evaluation and to be held to certain standards.  Both are needed for certain levels of achievement. 

I thoroughly enjoyed Matthew Kuhn's article, "Connecting Depth and Balance in Class."  He says, "Fortunately, the differentiating power of educational technology makes meeting the needs of different 'intelligences' or 'learning styles' more and more possible" (Kuhn 18).  As an English instructor at the collegiate level, I see the positive benefits of introducing and utilizing technology in my courses.  For example, when I was an in-person instructor and delivered lectures, some of my students were nervous to ask me questions about the material.  When my students submitted their essays, I would notice tons of issues that could have been avoided had they asked me.  But now that I'm teaching strictly online, my students are more inclined to ask me about a particular concept or watch my recorded lectures over and over until they understand the material.  In these cases, technology has provided the opportunity for my students to slow their learning down. 

References

Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. 

Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18-21. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.

App Reviews - Brandi Randall

ISTE 1.4 a Design Process - Students know and use a deliberate design process for generating ideas, testing theories, creating innovative artifacts or solving authentic problems.

https://www.commonsensemedia.org/app-reviews/toca-builders

    Toca Builders is an interactive building and construction app that allows kindergarten students to unleash their creativity and explore the design process. They can create structures, landscapes, and imaginative worlds using a variety of blocks and tools. Toca Builders encourages young learners to plan, experiment, and revise their designs, emphasizing the iterative nature of the design process. It provides a virtual sandbox for them to express their ideas, develop problem-solving skills, and see the results of their design choices. The cost of the app is $4.99. This app is intended for pre-k and kindergarten students. It is compatible with iOS (iPhone and iPad), and Android. Common Sense Media is a reputable source for evaluating the educational value and age-appropriateness of apps and media for children. They provide detailed reviews based on expert assessments and user feedback.

https://www.educationalappstore.com/app/sago-mini-world-kids-games

 Sago Mini World is a collection of interactive mini-games and activities designed for preschool and kindergarten children. It includes creative games like "Doodlecast" and "Babies," where kids can draw, design, and customize various elements. Sago Mini World promotes creativity and problem-solving through open-ended play. It allows students to design characters, scenes, and stories, fostering an early understanding of the design process as they make choices and observe outcomes. The cost of the app depends on the subscription you choose, but there is a free trial version. This app is intended for pre-k and kindergarten students. It is compatible with iOS (iPhone and iPad), Android, and Amazon Kindle Fire. Educational App Store provides reviews and ratings from educators, parents, and experts, making it a credible source for evaluating educational apps. They assess apps based on pedagogical value and age-appropriateness.

https://otswithapps.com/2012/09/29/shape-up-lite-app/

    Shape Up! Lite - Busy Things is an educational app designed to help young children, typically preschool and kindergarten students, develop their shape recognition and matching skills. It offers a variety of interactive shape-related activities, including matching shapes, identifying shapes in everyday objects, and completing shape puzzles. The app uses colorful and engaging visuals to make learning fun and interactive. Though not explicitly mentioned, the app's structure likely involves iterative learning. As students progress through the shape-related activities, they encounter increasingly complex challenges. They may make mistakes, learn from them, and adapt their strategies—a process akin to iterative design. Iteration is a fundamental principle in the design process, as designers refine and improve their creations through multiple cycles of feedback and adjustment. The lite version is free with limited content, but the full version requires a subscription. This app is intended for pre-k and kindergarten students. It is compatible with iOS (iPhone and iPad), and Android. OTs with Apps" is a website dedicated to offering insights and materials concerning the utilization of applications and technology in occupational therapy and associated domains. Their app evaluations rely on both expert appraisals and input from users, thereby establishing a credible foundation for assessing an app's educational merit and suitability for specific age groups.

    Among the three apps mentioned, Toca Builders serves as an excellent tool for teaching ISTE standard 1.4 a. It offers a virtual canvas where pre-k and kindergarten students can let their imaginations run wild. They have the freedom to create structures, landscapes, and imaginative worlds using a variety of blocks and tools. This creative environment encourages students to generate innovative ideas as they envision and construct their virtual creations. It lays the groundwork for the idea-generation phase of the design process. The app emphasizes the iterative nature of the design process. Students are encouraged to plan, experiment, and revise their designs based on their observations and experiences within the app. They can see the immediate results of their design choices, fostering an understanding that design often involves a cycle of refining and improving. This iterative learning process aligns with the iterative aspect of the design process mentioned in the standard. As students build and explore in Toca Builders, they encounter challenges and obstacles that require problem-solving. They need to figure out how to construct structures, connect blocks, and navigate the virtual world effectively. These problem-solving opportunities mirror the authentic problem-solving aspect of the standard, where students learn to apply their design thinking skills to overcome real challenges. The hands-on nature of the app allows students to engage actively in the design process. They make decisions, test theories, and experiment with different building techniques. This experiential learning approach aligns with the standard's emphasis on actively engaging in the design process rather than passively consuming information. It aligns well with ISTE standard 1.4 a by encouraging students to generate ideas, test theories, and create innovative artifacts through a deliberate design process.

Theories of Critical Thinking - Brandi Randall

    As a pre-k and kindergarten STEM teacher, I must consider the influence of educational theories and concepts on my students, coworkers, and classmates, especially in the realm of technology integration and digital literacy. Deep learning emphasizes personalized and experiential learning, which in the context of young children means engaging, technology-enhanced lessons. Utilizing educational apps, interactive whiteboards, and age-appropriate digital tools enables me to craft immersive learning experiences tailored to individual learning styles and paces, promoting a deeper understanding of STEM concepts.

    Bloom's Taxonomy, with its hierarchical levels of learning, guides me in designing progressively challenging lessons for young learners. Technology serves as a valuable scaffold to navigate these levels effectively. For instance, I can employ interactive apps to help students remember and understand fundamental STEM facts, then transition seamlessly to activities that encourage them to apply and analyze information through problem-solving and experimentation.

    The diffusion of innovations theory plays a pivotal role when introducing new technology to the classroom. Identifying the innovators and early adopters among my coworkers or classmates who readily embrace new tech tools allows for early experimentation and feedback gathering. To ensure a smooth adoption process for the early and late majorities, it's essential to provide comprehensive training and resources. Additionally, personalized support may be necessary for the laggards, making sure everyone can integrate technology effectively into their teaching or learning practices.

    These educational theories significantly shape my role as a pre-k and kindergarten STEM teacher, particularly concerning the integration of technology and the promotion of digital literacy. By incorporating deep learning principles, applying Bloom's Taxonomy in lesson planning, understanding the diffusion of innovations, and catering to various types of adopters, I create a dynamic and inclusive educational environment that equips young students with vital 21st-century skills while fostering a lifelong passion for STEM.

References:

Fullan, M. & Langworthy, M. (2014). A Rich Seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. London: Pearson. Retrieved from https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/one-dot-com/onedotcom/global/Files/aboutpearson/innovation/open-ideas/ARichSeamEnglish. 

Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. 

Huitt, W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsychinteractive.org/topics/cognition/bloom. 

Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18-21. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. 

Rogers, E. M. (1963). The adoption process II. Journal of Cooperative Extension, 1(2), 69-75. Retrieved from https://archives.joe.org/joe/1963summer/1963-2-a2.pdf.

Theories of Critical Thinking- Rico Billups

             When it comes to education there are a different task levels we should look when we care teaching.  Those levels are knowledge, comprehension, application, analysis synthesis, and evaluation.  These tasks are the basic cognitive domain task that Bloom and his team studied in the 1950’s.  

 

            Knowledge is what a student can recollect after a lesson is taught to them some time in their life.  Knowledge can be written down or of the spoken word, often do we see students tell us things that they were taught in previous grades.  Comprehension is a high step of knowledge, and this can be tested if a student understands the lesson that is being taught.  For instance, students can take a test over something, and we can tell if they have knowledge or comprehend the lesson.  Application is for the students to show that they can apply the knowledge that is being taught.  These are task we can have students perform to show that they can apply the lessons that given.  Analysis is when students can give us data or facts of assessments.  This comes from compare and contrast type of test.  Synthesis allows students to take the lesson being taught and create their own ideas.  Evaluation is for students to take an assessment and to see where they stand within all six domains above. (Huitt, 2011)

 

            Above is the list that was studied in a specific order in the 1950’s.  However in 2001, Anderson & Krathwhol changed the order in ways that were more relevant to modern era.  That list consists of Synthesis, Evaluation, Analysis, Application, Comprehensions, and Knowledge.  Moving knowledge to the bottom, shows that students how a wide range of knowledge with thing but may not synthesize and evaluate on the highest of levels.  (Huitt, 2011)

 

References:

 

W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain.Educational Psychology
Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University.

 

Anderson, L.W., & Krathwohl (Eds.). (2001).A Taxonomy for Learning, Teaching, and
Assessing: A Revision of Bloom's Taxonomy of Educational Objectives. New York:
Longman.

 

Theories of Critical Thinking

I find it fascinating how various educational theories and models intersect and influence the integration of technology in the classroom and the development of digital/information literacy skills. The theories of Deep Learning, as discussed in Fullan and Langworthy's "A Rich Seam" (2014), emphasize the importance of pedagogies that foster meaningful and lasting understanding. This approach resonates with the cognitive domain of Bloom's Taxonomy, which encourages higher-order thinking skills such as analysis and synthesis (Huitt, 2011). These theories underscore the need for educators to employ technology not as a mere tool but as a catalyst for deepening students' understanding and critical thinking abilities.

Rogers' Diffusion of Innovations theory remains highly relevant to the adoption of technology in education (Rogers, 1963). It helps us understand how educators and students fall into different categories of adopters, ranging from innovators who embrace technology eagerly to laggards who resist change. This theory sheds light on the challenges of implementing technology and the importance of addressing the diverse needs and attitudes of these adopter groups.

In my current role as a teacher and in my future aspirations as an educator, these concepts are invaluable. They guide me in designing lessons that leverage technology to promote deep learning and encourage the development of digital and information literacy skills. Understanding the dynamics of innovation adoption helps me tailor my teaching strategies to accommodate various levels of tech-savviness among students and colleagues. By recognizing the significance of these theories, I can create a more inclusive and effective learning environment that prepares students for the digital age while respecting their individual learning journeys.

References

Fullan, M., & Langworthy, M. (2014). A rich seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. London: Pearson. Retrieved from https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/one-dot-com/one-dot-com/global/Files/about-pearson/innovation/open-ideas/ARichSeamEnglish.pdf

Huitt, W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/cognition/bloom.pdf

Rogers, E. M. (1963). The adoption process II. Journal of Cooperative Extension, 1(2), 69-75. Retrieved from https://archives.joe.org/joe/1963summer/1963-2-a2.pdf

Theories of Critical Thinking- Shelena Cofield

 

Theories of Critical Thinking

The theories of Deep Learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, the Diffusion of Innovations, and the Types of Adopters affect my coworkers and I, often, through the introduction of new technology within the Learning Management System (LMS) and its use by teachers in their corresponding LMS courses. I work as a system administrator in higher education in collaboration with instructional designers, teachers, and administration. We provide technological advancements through introduction of new applications to improve the online learning experience. Rarely a day goes by that we are not aiding an instructor in the use of technology. The university continues to invest in new technology, but our department has seen firsthand that “simply purchasing the latest digital technologies does not necessarily lead to the acquisition of digital and media literacy competencies” (Hobbs, 2011). Our department is needed to help administration and instructors move past focusing on the tools only into how to use the tools “to promote critical thinking, creativity, and communication and collaboration skills” (Hobbs, 2011).

In relation to the introduction of new technology at a larger scale, we have seen firsthand the adoption process as we recently changed to a new video recording and editing solution for the university. Our department began planning the transition a year in advance and offered training sessions on how to use the new platform for over 6 months. Innovators and early adopters attended the first couple of sessions and were quick to discover the relative advantage of the new solution over the previous one. Inasmuch, they wanted to understand the solution’s compatibility and complexity. Thankfully, the adoption rate increased with each training session, and we experienced widespread adoption before the start of the fall semester. However, we did encounter laggards, or according to Rogers, those “oriented to the past”, calling for help days before the semester started and requiring special assistance (Rogers, 1963).

In terms of digital/information literacy for new technology, we are confronted, almost daily, with digital risks associated with protecting student personal information with LMS integrations from various software companies. There is always a teacher with a new “app” that may or may not perform better than its competitors. Our department vets these new applications through a lengthy approval process in conjunction with the Registrar’s Office and Information Technology to minimize digital risks, to include ensuring Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and security compliance.

Many higher education teachers are subject matter experts with no awareness or vested interest in deep learning. They want to remain passive content disseminators instead of differentiating instruction and meeting the needs of individual students and their learning styles. In deep learning “Teaching shifts from focusing on covering all required content to focusing on the learning process, developing students’ ability to lead their own learning and to do things with their learning” (Fullan & Langworthy, 2014). Additionally, many higher education instructors do not have education backgrounds and are not experienced with incorporating the revised Bloom’s Taxonomy to develop learning outcomes. Our department works closely with administration and teachers to incorporate new technologies while still promoting deep learning, assisting with digital/information literacy, and applying the revised Bloom’s Taxonomy.

 

References

Fullan, M. & Langworthy, M. (2014). A rich seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. London: Pearson. Retrieved from https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/one-dot-com/one-dot-com/global/Files/about-pearson/innovation/open-ideas/ARichSeamEnglish.pdf

Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.   

Rogers, E. M. (1963). The adoption process II. Journal of Cooperative Extension, 1(2), 69-

75.  Retrieved from https://archives.joe.org/joe/1963summer/1963-2-a2.pdf

Theories of Critical Thinking- Chase Cheaney

        The theories of Deep Learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, the Diffusion of Innovations, and the Types of Adopters can have many positive effects on students. According to Kuhn (2008), the use of technology in the classroom makes it “easier for teachers to ensure depth and balance in their lessons…”. Therefore, if teachers are using technology in the classroom, they are utilizing these theories of critical thinking, even if they aren’t explicitly trying to (Kuhn, 2008). I have seen this in my classroom as well. The increased use of technology during my lessons has created many opportunities to increase the depth of learning for my students. 

        With the use of technology in the classroom and the ever-increasing digital world, comes the importance of teaching students about digital and informational literacy. According to Hobbs (2011), “For people to achieve the personal, professional, and social benefits of thriving in a digital age, these skills are not just optional or desirable—they are the essential elements of digital citizenship.” As an educator, I believe it is part of my job to make sure that my students increase their digital and informational literacy skills while in my class. Luckily, I can use my school’s media specialist (librarian) as a resource to help teach my students these skills (Hobbs, 2011). 

        Fullan and Langworthy (2014) state that “the goals of deep learning are that students will gain the competencies and dispositions that will prepare them to be creative, connected, and collaborative life-long problem solvers and to be healthy, holistic human beings who not only contribute to but also create the common good in today’s knowledge-based, creative, interdependent world.” This quote resonated with me because I have always wanted to reach the entire student- both in mathematics and holistically. Technology has and continues to make this task more manageable. 

References:

Fullan, M. & Langworthy, M. (2014). A Rich Seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. London: Pearson. Retrieved from https://www.pearson.com/content/dam/one-dot-com/onedotcom/global/Files/aboutpearson/innovation/open-ideas/ARichSeamEnglish. 

Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. 

Huitt, W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta, GA: Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsychinteractive.org/topics/cognition/bloom. 

Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18-21. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database. 

Rogers, E. M. (1963). The adoption process II. Journal of Cooperative Extension, 1(2), 69-75. Retrieved from https://archives.joe.org/joe/1963summer/1963-2-a2.pdf.

Theories of Critical Thinking blog post

        The intersection of Deep Learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, the Diffusion of Innovations theory, and the classification of adopters can have a profound impact on students, coworkers, and classmates, especially in the context of technology in the classroom and digital/information literacy. Deep Learning, with its focus on understanding and applying knowledge, line up closely with Bloom's Taxonomy. When educators incorporate technology effectively, they can facilitate higher order thinking skills, moving beyond repetition memorization to analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. This empowers students to become critical thinkers and problem solvers in the digital age. (Kuhn 2008)

         The Diffusion of Innovations theory helps us understand how new technologies spread within educational settings. Innovators and early adopters are often the trailblazers, experimenting with new tools and methods. Educators who identify with these categories can drive improvement in the classroom, potentially enhancing the learning experience. Meanwhile, the early and late majority, as well as slackers, may adopt technology at different rates, highlighting the importance of accommodating various comfort levels and providing support for technology integration.

     Kuhn's concept of "connecting depth and balance" emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to technology use in the classroom. It's crucial to strike a balance between deep, meaningful learning experiences and the combination of technology as a tool to facilitate learning. Overreliance on technology without a focus on pedagogical depth can hinder educational outcomes. (Kuhn 2008)

       In terms of digital/information literacy, these theories highlight the importance of teaching students not only how to use technology but also how to critically assess and apply information. Understanding the distribution process helps educators anticipate challenge and adapt their approaches to different adopter groups, ensuring that digital literacy initiatives reach a wider audience. Hobbs, R. (2011)

        In conclusion, the relationship between these theories shapes the way educators approach technology in the classroom and digital/information literacy. By incorporating deep learning, Bloom's Taxonomy, the original levels by Bloom et al. (1956) were ordered as follows:  Knowledge, Comprehension, Application, Analysis, Synthesis, and Evaluation.  (Forehand 2005)

References

Forehand, M. (2005). Bloom's taxonomy: Original and revised.. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved January 2009, from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt.

Hobbs, R. (2011). Empowering learners with digital and media literacy. Knowledge Quest, 39(5), 12-17. Retrieved from Academic Search Premier database.

Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18-21.