Effective+learning+environments

Interpretation
Technology, to be used effectively, requires specific environments to enable effective use. Without such environments, the technology cannot be optimally used, or may even have a negative effect on learners.

Sample artifact: Knowledge Explorer webquest
The Knowledge Explorer webquest is a traditional webquest with a twist. The starting point for the webquest is junk food, but the direction of the webquest is open-ended, directed by the student instead of the webquest designer. It incorporates an architecture that allows a teacher with minimal skill to alter the direction of the webquest for each learner or learner group.

Rationale
This project was an attempt to go beyond the teacher-directed webquest, and create a student-directed webquest. Inasmuch as inquiry-based instruction is an effective teaching strategy, this project demonstrates a true inquiry-based webquest. For more on the architecture of the webquest, see the accompanying Teacher Guide. For an in-depth reflection on the webquest, see my blog posting: An open-ended inquiry webquest

The standard
Educational technology facilitators plan, design, and model effective learning environments and multiple experiences supported by technology. Educational technology facilitators: A. Design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology-enhanced instructional strategies to support the diverse needs of learners. Candidates:
 * 1) provide resources and feedback to teachers as they create developmentally appropriate curriculum units that use technology.
 * 2) consult with teachers as they design methods and strategies for teaching computer/technology concepts and skills within the context of classroom learning.
 * 3) assist teachers as they use technology resources and strategies to support the diverse needs of learners including adaptive and assistive technologies.

B. Apply current research on teaching and learning with technology when planning learning environments and experiences. Candidates:
 * 1) assist teachers as they apply current research on teaching and learning with technology when planning learning environments and experiences.

C. Identify and locate technology resources and evaluate them for accuracy and suitability. Candidates:
 * 1) assist teachers as they identify and locate technology resources and evaluate them for accuracy and suitability based on district and state standards.
 * 2) model technology integration using resources that reflect content standards.

D. Plan for the management of technology resources within the context of learning activities. Candidates:
 * 1) provide teachers with options for management of technology resources within the context of learning activities.

E. Plan strategies to manage student learning in a technology-enhanced environment. Candidates:
 * 1) provide teachers with a variety of strategies to use to manage student learning in a technology-enhanced environment and support them as they implement the strategies.

F. Identify and apply instructional design principals associated with the development of technology resources. Candidates:
 * 1) assist teachers as they identify and apply instructional design principals associated with the development of technology resources.