Application of Learning Theories

Tech Apps, grades 6-8

(3) Foundations. The student complies with the laws and examines the issues regarding the use of technology in society.

Objective:

The student will demonstrate proper etiquette and knowledge of acceptable use while in an individual classroom, lab, or on the Internet and intranet.

Activity:

The student will create a podcast outlining appropriate etiquette on the Internet and within the school’s course management site.

I would incorporate these two learning theories:

*Schema Theory

According to the text, ”Learners use existing schemata to interpret events and solve problems, and they develop new and more complex schemata through experience and learning.” Based on this “definition”, I would teach web etiquette by relating it to prior knowledge (basic etiquette), thus activating “existing schemata” . The course management component of the assignment would provide an opportunity to practice etiquette skills in an “authentic” learning environment.

*Gagne’s Theory of Instruction

-Gaining attention-Students watch short teacher created video about basic face to face etiquette.

-Objective-State objective and how it relates to the video

-Prior Learning-Brainstorm what is known about etiquette in our world--provide a link to a formal definition of etiquette. Discuss any elements of etiquette that might have been omitted from class discussion. Discuss how etiquette rules in the face to face world can apply to the web.

-Stimulus-Direct students to website(s) on web etiquette. After 5 minutes, have an etiquette “slam” where students relate something learned from the site. Slam could be recorded via Auditorium and posted as reference tool.

-Learning Guidance-Teacher provides document outlining basic web etiquette guidelines or students take notes on their computers to use as a reference tool. Students also receive a rubric to self monitor their own progress.

-Performance-Create podcast on web etiquette

-Feedback-Teacher monitors creation of podcasts and provides guidance during the production phase.

-Demonstration-Podcasts published for class viewing

-Enhance Retention and Transfer-Authentic application of etiquette via use of course management system and interaction within said system.