Educational Value of Instructional Technology | Origin: ED126
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Integrating Technology into Education --> Educational Value of Instrcutional Technology
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
From this module, I learned that instructional technology has real educational value when it is used to enhance learning, not just to add convenience. It can improve student engagement, provide access to a wide range of resources, and support different learning styles. I also learned that technology can help track progress and give more immediate feedback, which can improve student outcomes.
One key takeaway for me is that the effectiveness of instructional technology depends on how well it aligns with learning objectives. Simply using technology is not enough—it needs to support the goals of the lesson and make learning more meaningful.
I plan to apply what I’ve learned by being more intentional in how I use technology. I want to choose tools that promote active learning and participation, and that help students better understand the material. I will also continue to evaluate whether the technology I use is actually improving learning and make adjustments as needed.
I’m looking forward to learning from my peers and seeing how they use technology effectively in their own learning or teaching environments.
Staying current with industry developments and continuously improving teaching skills are key aspects of the job.
Instructors should know the 4 learning types in order to best address the information within their class and how their students get that information. It's not fair to always present the information for auditory learners and none for the rest of their adult learners.
the different learning types and how to accommodate each one.
Teachers should address different learning styles like visual, auditory, reading and writting when using technology, so by offering varied resources and fostering collaboration, teachers can guide both in person and online. helping students to learn efficiently. Technology also simplifies ongoing evaluation, providing students with instant feedback.
Tools and programs like LMS aid the instructor in balancing the work load.
I have learned about the VARK model.
I like using LMS for quizzes because I can give multiple attempts and immediate feedback.
To understand instructional technologies, we must examine the tools, processes, and systems that enhance teaching and learning.
The theory, also known as transformational learning, according to J. Mezirow says this revolves around the premise that adults can adjust their thinking based on new information. They possess the necessary set of experiences needed to undergo a significant thought transformation.
VARS - Visual, Audio, Reading/Writing, Kinesthetic.
While I have worked with adult learners throughout my teaching career, I enjoyed reading about andragogy. I believe this model will help me work more successfully with these kinds of students in the future.
I enjoyed thinking about the reasons why adult learners are interested in learning - this is a concept that I think is overlooked by some instructors but is crucial to engagement and success.
It is interesting that being a good instructor may include knowledge of technical supports available to augment learning. There are rules demanding individuated education for all, but not support systems to provide current, cost-effective best technical strategies to supply it.
I can see how technology can play into the various VARK learning preferences.
The LMS improve learning processes.
In this module, I learned that there are reading and writing learners who absorb information through writing notes and completing practice tests. I learn this way. I also learned that adults struggle with absorbing knowledge compared to children, so the learning needs to be clear, have value, and purpose. I agree with this statement because as I age, it does get more challenging to learn content. I intend to continue to seek ways to integrate learning for all learners, visual, auditory, reading and writing, and kinesthetic.
