In education circles, it is often said that teachers who are leaders wear many different hats. Over the last five weeks, I have been challenged to don several unique chapeaus, each with their own specific purpose for helping to create more significant learning environments. Week 1 of EDLD 5318 provided the opportunity to explore different learning theories before deciding which one best fit our teaching style. I tried on hats related to Behaviorism, Cognitivism, Constructivism and Connectivism before deciding that I looked exceptionally good in a Constructivism hard hat. So, with my hard hat, a great theory tool belt and neon orange vest, I set out to develop an online course using the learning management system Schoology. My online course is designed to assist teachers in creating significant learning environments through the use of Microsoft OneNote. Constructivist learning theory is based off of the concept that learning is an active process. Learners draw from their prior knowledge to build on new learning experiences. Constructive teaching methods include a wealth of opportunities for scholars to express themselves through Socratic open dialogue discussions that compel the learner to think about their thinking. It was here, very early in week 1, that I realized my favorite hat to wear and the one I wear most often is the definition of constructivist learning at its finest...my AVID hat! AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a college readiness elective that prides itself in preparing ALL students for success in a global society. AVID is the epitome of Constructivism, setting goals for student success, arming students with 21st century skills and above all knowing how to manage and apply all types of knowledge. AVID is by far my favorite hat to wear because I have the pleasure of teaching the AVID elective, supporting over 16 AVID campuses as an instructional coach and working for AVID in the summer as a nationally trained staff developer. When deciding on the best ways to implement constructivist learning theories into my online course, I had to look no further than AVID as it embodies all things active learning. Once, I discovered the multiple correlations among Constructivism and AVID, it was hard for me in the remaining four weeks to encompass other learning theories. Every week going forward, I found myself wanting to easily sum up all of the answers in one mic-drop acronym...AVID! I was completely okay with that realization because I firmly believe that AVID is how we do school right! For more information on how AVID can help your district do school right, check out www.avid.org In the weeks to follow, I began to build my course using the principles found in Constructivism, AVID and a familiar concept known as Understanding by Design. Introducing UbD to my online course allowed me to further develop the foundations of critical thinking, problem solving and real world connections firmly put in place by AVID. UbD helped me to scaffold the learning in a way that makes it easy for learners of all levels to comprehend. All lessons in my course were designed with the "why" and "how" in mind giving every module intent and purpose. Throughout this course, I discovered many enduring take-aways that I will most certainly incorporate into my teaching and instructional coaching. However, there is one constant that I want to make every educator who comes in contact with AVID aware. The AVID System does not add more to your plate. It simply takes all the good routines that are already there and makes them more intentional. When educators and scholars embrace these benefits the possibilities for success are endless. It is my sincere hope that through the use of UbD, scholars who complete my online course can and will transfer their new found knowledge to their peers who in turn continue the cycle of creating amazing learning opportunities for all. Click on the links below for more valuable info on the resources used in designing this course:www.avid.org - AVID website for ALL things college readiness and beyond
docs.com/avidforonenote - Download the Microsoft OneNote AVID eBinder Starter Kit www.onenoteforteachers.com - Microsoft website dedicated to meeting educator's technology needs summitps.org - Comprehensive online core curriculum designed around the Project Based Learning concept www.schoology.com - Learning Management System focused on collaboration as the heart of learning www.playposit.com - Helps educators and scholars transform ordinary videos into digital assessment tools todaysmeet.com - Backchannel used to enhance and manage engaging digital discussions that empower the learner www.teachable.com - Digital platform used to create and sell beautiful online courses
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AuthorMadeline Brandi Collins is a Louisiana girl through and through. Raised by her beloved Maw Maw and namesake, she moved to Texas 13 years ago to pursue a career in education which proved to be one of the best decisions EVER!
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