TEC-VARIETY-lightbulb moment - Artefact 6

Assignment two provided me with many light bulb moments, and gave me theoretical confirmation of my current teaching practice using technology as well as igniting my desire to do more.

The TEC-VARIETY model was new to me and once I understood what it was I could see straight way the impact it could have upon my classroom. Having greater knowledge of learner motivation provides insight into why learners are sometimes more successful than others in their learning journey (Bonk & Khoo, 2014). Applying the TEC-VARIETY framework to my unit planning forced me to think more carefully about the types of technology and why. There have been times when I have encountered a new online tool or a new piece of technology and have rushed into using it without thinking "can this enhance my students learning? I will be using the TEC-VARIETY framework when I am planning my learning in the future as making learning activities purposeful will focus students energy and efforts towards their desired goals (Bonk & Khoo, 2014).

Making connections to my teaching context - Artefact 5

 

After considering the relationship between pedagogy and technology and student engagement I started to think where these concepts fit into the model of negotiated learning implemented at my school, Summerland Primary School. Negotiated learning was introduced to my school in 2013 and this visual representation came about through staff professional development, visits to other schools and numerous staff meetings. 

Negotiated Learning Model at Summerland Primary School (2013)

Taking into consideration my new understandings I would make slight changes to this model.
Student engagement would be placed in the central circle as negotiated learning puts students at the centre of learning and McCombs and Vakili (2005) stated that this fosters positive relationships between teachers and students built on mutual respect and compassion.
Technology has been added to the background of the diagram, showing the seamless integration and role that technology plays in the learning. It is there as a tool to enhance learning, it is not being used for the sake of it.

 

Adapted model (2016).

Pedagogy driven by technology? - Artefact 4

• What is the relationship between technology and pedagogy?
• Why do you think so?
• What is the implication of that position for teaching?

Technology is playing an increasing role in modern learning and is forcing teachers to think carefully about their pedagogical beliefs. Prior to studying this E-Learning paper I would have said that strong pedagogy would drive effective technology use, however I now think that they are reliant on each other.

Teaching that is driven by technology without sound pedagogical knowledge is ineffective and Hannum & McCombs (2008) stated that the introduction of media and technology alone to a learning environment, will not cause any improvements in learner achievement.

Technology is here to stay and I think we all make an extra effort to make use of technology in our classrooms. I think technology has been a positive way to encourage teachers to try new things in their practice in order to make learning more interesting and engaging for students.
Using technology for the sake of it has little or no value but every new app or device builds a teachers resource bank to choose from.