The learning environments of today's classrooms are in a state of change. This comes as no surprise as we know our environments affect how we feel, how we think, and can be motivating or deflating. Learning environments are not only the physical spaces surrounding us, but also the digital spaces to which we have access. Today's students are connected to the digital global community and we want to provide them access to technology that enables them to use open educational platforms and promotes collaboration. According to this video, when students feel comfortable in their learning spaces, they are more likely to focus on the four Cs: Communication, Collaboration, Creativity and Critical Thinking. These are the qualities and attitudes of tomorrow's marketable adults!
As a teacher and mother, I am constantly amazed at the number of Google Apps that can be used in the classroom setting to enhance learning. My third grader knows how to use her Google email account to use Google Docs and Slides. She understands how to share documents with friends and her teachers and enjoys doing it. She likes to explore using Google Earth. She even used another Google App to create music for her music class and was able to create a presentation! Educators, incorporate Google Apps for Education into your repertoire! If a third grader enjoys collaborating with peers and teachers using these applications, think of what a young adult could do! You can assist them by providing structure with calendars and assignment directions that are accessible whenever, wherever. Yet, the assignments can be more student centered.
Because technologies are so essential to learning environments, we need to break out of the traditional factory model of the classroom. Classrooms should provide transparency to learning and be spaces that promote sharing and the ability to explore. While I disagree with Tina Barseghian that "By 2019 half of high school classes will be delivered online," I do agree that brick and mortar schools will need to shift away from traditional classroom models to remain relevant to the needs of today's and tomorrow's learners. Her article can be found here. Learning environments need to be flexible and engaging. Students need the freedom to view different focal points. A white board and Smart board, perhaps? . Many schools already have BYOD (bring your own device) use policies in place, as a majority of students possess tablets, phones and laptops which they bring to school. Chromebooks are becoming popular items for creating classrooms that provide technology to every student in other schools. These technologies allow for teachers to create interactive lessons that provide more student engagement than traditional lectures and direct instruction.
Currently, at the University of Akron, the campus has many updated buildings and spaces that are better tailored to suit the needs of its students. Bierce Library has small conference rooms, a large space with tables and chairs that can be arranged in the most conducive ways, many computers, and two stations that provide tech help. In the newer buildings, such as Zook, there are tables and chairs in common areas that are comfortable and provide access to power outlets. I do not spend much time on campus, but my needs are met when I am there. I remember when this wasn't always the case. This shift is evidence of the changing learning environments happening in grade schools and secondary schools across the nation.
Because technologies are so essential to learning environments, we need to break out of the traditional factory model of the classroom. Classrooms should provide transparency to learning and be spaces that promote sharing and the ability to explore. While I disagree with Tina Barseghian that "By 2019 half of high school classes will be delivered online," I do agree that brick and mortar schools will need to shift away from traditional classroom models to remain relevant to the needs of today's and tomorrow's learners. Her article can be found here. Learning environments need to be flexible and engaging. Students need the freedom to view different focal points. A white board and Smart board, perhaps? . Many schools already have BYOD (bring your own device) use policies in place, as a majority of students possess tablets, phones and laptops which they bring to school. Chromebooks are becoming popular items for creating classrooms that provide technology to every student in other schools. These technologies allow for teachers to create interactive lessons that provide more student engagement than traditional lectures and direct instruction.
Currently, at the University of Akron, the campus has many updated buildings and spaces that are better tailored to suit the needs of its students. Bierce Library has small conference rooms, a large space with tables and chairs that can be arranged in the most conducive ways, many computers, and two stations that provide tech help. In the newer buildings, such as Zook, there are tables and chairs in common areas that are comfortable and provide access to power outlets. I do not spend much time on campus, but my needs are met when I am there. I remember when this wasn't always the case. This shift is evidence of the changing learning environments happening in grade schools and secondary schools across the nation.
No comments:
Post a Comment