After reading this week’s articles, I started to realize just how unified deep learning, digital/media literacy, and innovation really are. Fullan and Langworthy (2014) argue that deep learning goes far beyond just using technology but that it’s taking time to rethink how we teach so that students prepare for the real world as they expand their critical thinking skills. This really hit me because I see so many classrooms, mine included; where technology is used more for convenience than that of transformation. It's more convenient to have them practice vocabulary with a Blooket or Quizlet than it is to teach them how to compare real world situations to the topic we are teaching them about from the standards.
Connecting this to Bloom’s Taxonomy (Huitt, 2011), I think that remembering and understanding information isn’t enough anymore. Our students should be doing things like analyze, evaluate, and even create with technology integration that helps get them there. Hobbs (2011) emphasizes that digital and media literacy allows learners to be smart consumers and creators of information. In my own classroom, I know I need to do more to help students critically evaluate what they see online and contribute unbiasedly and responsibly to the digital world.
Of course, getting everyone on board with these ideas is its own challenge. Rogers’ (1963) diffusion of innovations theory helps explain this. Some teachers jump in eagerly while others hang back until they see some benefits or feel more comfortable. Some just simply don’t like change. This is true for students, too. I’ve learned that if I want new tools or approaches to stick, I need to support my coworkers and students at every stage of the adoption process. I start a new position tomorrow and part of my job duties will be just that. I hope to create a culture where experimenting with new ideas feels safe and supported, not overwhelming.
These readings reminded me that real change is about more than just the tools we use. It's a lot about everyone’s mindsets. As I start my new job, I want to focus on creating deeper, more engaging learning experiences that help teachers and students think critically while using technology wisely, and feel confident navigating the ever-changing information available to them.
Work Cited
Fullan, M., & Langworthy, M. (2014). A rich seam: How new pedagogies find deep learning. 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.
Huitt, W. (2011). Bloom et al.'s taxonomy of the cognitive domain. Educational Psychology Interactive. Valdosta State University. Retrieved from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/cognition/bloom.pdf
Kuhn, M. S. (2008). Connecting depth and balance in class. Learning & Leading with Technology, 36(1), 18–21.
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
I agree with what you said about how real change is more than just the tools we use, it comes from a full on change in the mindset of how you teach. A lot of teachers are using technology in the classroom just to check a box off and it is easier to let them get on to practice using blooket or quizlet. We as educators must work hard at expanding our minds and our practices if we want to give these students the best education possible. It is critical in the world we live in today to understand and use technology fluently, if we do not teach this to students while we have them, where else will they learn it? I look forward to working with you more this semester and sharing more ideas!
ReplyDeletePam,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that technology is often used as a convenience instead of a transformation. I am guilty of having students work on a Chromebook while I pull small groups or having to message a parent. While they worked on district-paid sites, they were not always engaged and learning. This fall, in my new role as a library media specialist, I also want to have students analyze, evaluate, and create with technology. Being the "tech person" for my grade level in the past helped me see that just as students learn in different ways, teachers do as well. Educators must be mindful when planning lessons to ensure all students have the chance to thrive. Moving forward in my new role, I aim to be a positive influence on my students and colleagues, encouraging them to embrace the ever-changing technology. I wish you the best of luck in your new role this school year!