EDTC+5203

=Foundations of Educational Technology=

Thompson's Visual Representation of Learning Theories

In their book //Educational Technology A Definition with Commentary// Alan Januszewski and Michael Molenda state "Educational technology is the study and ethical practice of facilitating learning and improving performance by creating, using, and managing appropriate technological processes and resources." The definition is the starting point for understanding how technology is used in conjunction with three major learning theories: the Behaviorist, Cognitivist, and Constructivist theories. The cartoon linked to "Facilitating Learning" explains the three theories.

[|Facilitating Learning] Cartoon that explains three theories of learning.


 * Wordle Comparison **

I really learned a lot in this class, both from the text and the people in my group. The discussions were thought provoking and helped me see things from different perspectives. At the beginning of the semester I thought I knew what Educational Technology was, but as time went I discovered how little I really knew. My two Wordles reflect my changing knowledge base. For example, the first Wordle placed the word “students” in big bold letters, but the underlying thematic words are “teach, teachers, and teaching” Those are good words, but they are teacher-centered words. The second Wordle has more student-centered words such as “information, learn, learning, and learners”. The word “use” appears in both Wordles, but it is off to the side in the first one. It is centrally located in the second Wordle between “teachers and students”. I think this reflects my changing attitude. Teachers should help students learn how to use technology in ethical ways. “Help” is also in both Wordles because I want to help those around me learn to use technology effectively. “Design, schema, and theories” were new words in the second Wordle because I had not thought about the theoretical basis for technology lessons before. When I compare my beginning Wordle with my final Wordle I am amazed at how naïve my thinking was. I am also amazed at how my focus has changed. I believe I have a more balanced approach to technology than I ever had.