What are your initial reactions to this theory/model? What are barriers to its use? What benefits might be expected for those who overcome the barriers?
Learning objects are pretty much what they sound like- objects used for learning. I think it is a very common practice for teachers to gather together learning objects from different sources for instruction. (How many times are teachers told to "beg, borrow, or steal" ideas for their classroom?) It was interesting to think about the possibility of having an more organized system of storing these digital learning objects online for easy access and use. I think that's the main barrier to using LO- taking the time to locate appropriate resources. If you do find that perfect object (video, lecture, interactive, podcast, etc.) it can really help students understand a concept and keep you from "reinventing the wheel" when the resource is already out there.
Would you attempt to use this theory/model with the students you are currently teaching or hope to teach in the future? Why or why not? Could elements of the theory/model be modified so that it would work with your current/future students?
I do pull learning objects from a variety of sources for my elementary classroom. Some of them are more structured sites- like TeacherTube, Learn360, and Math Interactive. I'm constantly finding resources from other places as well- sometimes just by googling "science interactives" or "fraction videos." Kids love using any learning object that's not in a textbook or practice book, so it's time well-spent searching!
Since we're taking learning theories/models that were not necessarily created with the Web in mind and turning them into Web modules, what Web-based tools or resources could be leveraged to carry out this learning theory/model online?
The internet really makes the organization of learning objects possible. Many sites (like the ones I've mentioned above) are already putting together some of these resources- but they usually are only focused on one element- like just videos or only podcasts. It seems like this is field where there is a great deal of opporunity for expansion right now.
I agree, that as teachers we pull content from many locations. I have found that many of these locations are not always stable. Many are here today and gone tomorrow. It would be nice to have a location where content can be stored and access on a regular basis. Hopefully advertisement free.
ReplyDeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteI agree that we need to find a way to organize these objects. Organization would make it so much easier to find what we need.
It seems that we are on the cusp of greatness in regards to a database of Learning Objects. I agree with you that many sites containing Learning Objects are singular in their offerings such as just videos or just podcasts. There is such potential... hmm... perhaps we should tap into this relatively untapped market?!
ReplyDelete(Julie Jones)