Instructional Technology for
Active Learning

Course Description:
This course provides an overview of the application of teaching and learning theories for diverse audiences. The focus will be on creating learning environments that are active and learner centered. This course will emphasize individual and technological approaches to the acquisition, processing, and application of information from a variety of sources. Topics for discussion include problem-based and inquiry-guided learning, curriculum development, on-line learning, constructivist principles, web-based instruction, distance education, and best practices in technology integration.

Summary: 

By offering a TPACK-related pedagogical content knowledge method of training, teachers can experience instructional modeling, peer coaching, and collaborative development which allows them to see the resources in action as well as get time to work with the technologies on their own, both with peers and individually (P. 194, Herring, 2016). Training offered should be engaging and hands-on so teachers can connect with it and invest in the resources. There should be opportunities for teachers to request training on specific resources that meet their needs and desires.  Page 45 of Spector's text states, “Adults often bring to a learning situation a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences with the expectation that some of it will be acknowledged and useful when learning something new. Adults are especially interested in planning their own learning trajectories and negotiating particular learning goals insofar as that is possible” (Spector, 2016).

Finally, support should be provided to teachers as they implement new technology-rich lessons into their curriculum.  “Strong professional learning communities also contribute to teachers’ instructional improvement (Borko, 2004). While participating in such communities when initiated and sustained through TPACK-based PDs, teachers interact, collaborate, and share” (P. 281, Herring, 2016).  A PLC that meets one to two times per month throughout the length of the school year would serve as the most effective method to offer support and guidance to teachers wanting to improve their technology-rich active learning practices.