Technology as a Medium for Learning
Investigates the role that technology can play in transforming the learning experience. Emphasizes interactive approaches that increase learner access, persistence, and engagement and designs that yield evidence of learning. In addition to investigating research relevant to media design, such as visual-auditory processing, cognitive load, and universal design, the course introduces protocols for aligning technology strategy with learning goals and learner needs. Offers students an opportunity to experiment with a suite of emerging technologies and then to develop an online, media-rich learning environment.
Course Syllabus
Signature Assignments
Tech Analysis: Apply the core concepts of James Lang's Small Teachings to enhance a existing curriculum
Lesson Revamp: An existing lesson plan gets an update with new tech-based tools and strategies
Websearch Analysis: Source and analyze the credibility and context of the website for an existing PAC
Reflection
Technology as a Medium for learning has contributed to my core objective of growing my digital toolkit. My goal coming into this program was to increase the available techniques, platforms, and philosophies available to me and my learning design. Each module in this course allowed me to do so in new and varied ways.
The projects that prompted me to grow or redevelop existing curriculums and lesson plans based on the principles in James Lang’s Small Teaching were especially informative. This text proposes low-lift, high-impact teaching strategies that can maximize engagement, retention, and motivation in a student body. I was able to apply these concepts in my workplace to increase the scope and impact of our developing training program. Going forward, I believe that continual applications of these techniques will allow me to continue developing their efficacy. Small Teachings is definitely a book I will revisit!
Before this course, I had theories that couldn’t be easily applied. By curating a list of online tools to crowdsource learning, encourage socialization, and assess engagement, I have developed hard skills and tools out of what was once just instincts and anecdotal evidence. This course has also given me the tools to continue finding and saving those tools as our digital world continues to grow exponentially.