My Philosophy of Learning By Sara Hummell I would use three terms to describe the manner in which I approach learning: 1) active, 2) perceptive, and 3) broad based. If one wishes to maximize his/her knowledge gains, he/she must seek it actively. Efficiency and effectiveness in learning are promoted by motivating oneself to acquire knowledge by energetically seeking its acquisition. Passive learning is possible but the results, when compared to active learning, are comparatively puny. When wanting to promote one's learning, all antennae must be out; i.e., all five senses must be switched on and working at full force to actualize the best learning mode. Being non-alert thwarts learning. If learning is one's objective, then perceptivity accentuates the acquisition process. When information and facts are flowing, the absorption sponge, perceptiveness, must be at the ready. Channeling learning tends to restrict it. Of course, in some cases, it is necessary for the short term, but long range learning is more personally bountiful; thus, confining one's learning can result in learning lost. By broad-based, I suggest that it not be conditional, but expanded to include wide areas of inspection, without geographic confinement as well. The more we know about all facets of people, places, and things, the more our learning is enhanced. Learning via myopia robs us of visions and reduces domains. ADJUSTMENTS TO THE MANY DIFFERENT LEARNING STYLES
By Sara Hummell Everyone has a unique way of learning things. The difficulty for teachers is to figure out which student has more of an advantage with a certain learning style, or which learning style would be suitable for all students. Good teachers do try to incorporate various methods into their teaching style because they know these methods can create some inspiration and expand a learner’s capacity. For example, most Millennials are well adapted to a visual learning style through the social media. This learning method enables them to use maps, web sites, diagrams, displays, handouts, and short movies. Further, they can interact with computers, which might lead to experimenting with different types of creative projects. Another method, Auditory Learning, is commonly used to engage students in conversing about related subjects or topics and stimulate requests for summaries of materials that encourage them to listen to taped materials and lectures. Another way that teachers could promote students’ learning is by using the Kinesthetic learning method. This means of learning stimulates growth through role playing in class discussions and taking notes on paper. The Kinesthetic methodology facilitates developing projects employing software such as Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint Excel, and Access) etc. Under most circumstances, teachers can never really apply all 12 possible learning styles for our online learning pods. Students need to explore for themselves by trying different learning styles, which, in long run, could benefit everyone involved. Constructing an e-portfolio help the teaching and learning process?
By Sara Hummell A well-designed e-portfolio program is an amazing tool for higher education. There are hundreds of benefits of an e-portfolio depending on the unique value of the individual and the organization. The e-portfolio is beneficial for both students and teachers. Usage of an e-portfolio will:
https://www.aacu.org/publications-research/periodicals/benefits-e-portfolios-students-and-faculty-their-own-words Check out this youtube video about E-portfolios in Higher Education This entry was posted on February 2, 2016 |
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Thoughts on Online Privacy Concerns
By Sara Hummell Every time when we search something on the internet or use our personal information online, I am concerned about my privacy and my security vulnerability. For example, when a purchase is made online and we have to reveal data–such as address and telephone number–as well as credit card information, I feel a certain hesitancy. This discomfort is further exacerbated when I must include my social security number, date of birth and other crucial highly sensitive personal documentation. Many of us are not aware that the government and private firms are tracking and gathering information for their own use with total disregard of presumed privacy. This invasion even includes monitoring our movements and destinations outside the home. Even recording the number of times we go on and out of certain buildings is recorded. In my view, this is totally unacceptable in a country where freedom is considered the hallmark of its existence. After the readings these reports and viewing a video, I started thinking personal privacy is non-existent. Digital fingerprinting is another alarming concern of mine. I resent and am alarmed by the taking of my palm prints at an official testing center, or when it became known that the FBI’s top secret files got hacked. All these personal is vulnerable to iPhone intrusion. Is anything private? I have serious concerns the answer is: No! If my suspicions are valid, now what? Please check out this video by Gary Kovacs at http://www.ted.com/talks/gary_kovacs_tracking_the_trackers |
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Assessments are important for E-learning practice
by Sara Hummell There are many reasons assessments are important for e-learning practice; some examples are: assessments will give detailed feedback, help professors or instructors set standards, and analyze progress. It is proven that many informative assessments have more value than summative assessments, but in my opinion, if we apply summative assessment in timely manners –for example, take tests way before deadlines and repeat it on due date– it could be useful for knowing how far students have progressed on new topics or that some students have missed critical instruction in necessary subject areas or even valuable planning for future instructional measurement methods. Furthermore, e-learners or students can test themselves, discover their skills, knowledge, and adjust their own future study plans. Professors can use assessment as a tool such for certain types of techniques that work for students to conduct assessment matching to the direction they want to teach, and, connect online class modules and exercises etc., Please check out this web site: Assessment Strategies |
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Thoughts on various delivery models and methods
by Sara Hummell Once I was told to never teach a course the same way twice. I believe teaching the same course in different ways requires multiple types of deliverables and methodologies. I personally like hybrid courses. Also, I like both asynchronous and synchronous modes because I believe they both are beneficial, but if I were to choose classes online, I would probably choose an asynchronous mode because students can log into their classes anytime, anywhere. In other words, I prefer the asynchronous mode because teachers can make their lessons available through the Internet and students can contact each other through discussion sessions or video conferencing. It is just convenient and time-consuming way to learn. Even though the various types of delivery models have advantages and disadvantages, combining various delivery modes can lead to effective teaching, student interaction and energy-filled conceptual successes. Deliverable modes don’t have to be formal or constant; they can vary depending on the group of students and uniqueness of topics. In my opinion, the method of delivery should be molded to fit the content being delivered. Delivery of the model should be flexible and based on the students group’s learning style, thereby fitting it to the model which is deemed most effective. Please check out this article by Mary Burns: Distance Education for Teacher Training: Modes, Models, and Methods |
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Netiquette
By Sara Hummell In my opinion, Netiquette is the precise, suitable, and acceptable way of connecting on the internet.In other words, Netiquette is the combination of the rules of respect and privacy. It can be ethical for security reasons. Most people would rather not reveal their personal information publicly. One of the most important roles of an online instructor should be to set up boundaries for their students. There are many cultures and languages crossing over online learning education systems, which could bring unbelievable amounts of complicity if there are no boundaries. That is why online teachers need to be clear from day one to establish those rules by simply explaining guidelines and regulations. Also, Netiquette is beneficial to anyone who participates in certain activities– such as social media usage or surfing online information –to be respectful when creating a specific network and/or interacting with an online community. Please see this slide by Zoe Zats: Netiquette and Civility in the Online Classroom |
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