CONCEPTS
SET 1
Concept: Anchored Instruction
Definition: A type of instruction in which materials to be learned are linked
to a meaningful theme. The theme provides a holistic context for learning diverse
concepts and subjects.
Application: When implementing anchored instruction through technology it is
important to include technology into a certain theme. Teachers could do this
by finding related information on internet sites, computer software, video/audio
tapes,
Concept: Authentic Activity
Definition: Promotes learning in a meaningful and realistic ways. The best ones
of these allow students the opportunity to do hands-on activities, and control
their learning to a certain degree. Provides practice and experience in ways
that are valued by society beyond the classroom walls.
Application: To provide authentic activities it is important to make the learning
meaningful. To provide authentic activities through technology, teachers could
allow their students to work with computer software that is related to the curriculum
in the classroom. The children will be able to gain knowledge of the topic, while
participating in hands-on activities that are meaningful to them.
Concept: Authentic Assessment
Definition: Evaluation that addresses what was learned and the process through
which it was learned in a method similar to the practice activities, provides
information about the particular tasks at which students succeed or fail, and
evaluates tasks that are worthwhile, significant, and meaningful.
Application: A type of assessment
that allows the teacher to evaluate each child’s
progress. This can be done in a variety of ways, including observations and
portfolios. When incorporating technology through authentic assessments,
educators could
present a computer task to a child and observe them through each step that
the child takes to understand what the child knows and things that he/she
needs to
work on.
Concept: Communities of
Learners
Definition: Teachers, students,
staff members, parents, and others actively and cooperatively work to help
one another learn. Communication is open, participation
is widespread, teamwork is prevalent, and diversity is incorporated. All
participants share a common sense of purpose, care about, trust, and respect
each other,
and
recognize each other’s efforts and accomplishments.
Application: A community of learners can be established through open communication
between teachers, administration, parents and students. When incorporating technology
into the community of learners email, discussion boards, and school websites
are tools that help to support open communication between the various participants.
Concept: Scaffolds
Definition: Support provided to learners in various forms, including (but not
limited to) printed or oral guidance, modeling, and questions. Assistance is
gradually reduced as the student achieves mastery.
Application: When educators are providing scaffolding through technology, they
would begin by introducing computers to the children and guide them through the
beginning steps of operating one. Once the children have mastered how to operate
a computer, educators could continue to scaffold by introducing new computer
concepts and software to the children.
Concept: Transfer
Definition: The application of previously learned skills or knowledge to a new
task or situation.
Application: Educators can provide technology opportunities for children to transfer their computer knowledge and skills by allowing them to work with computers and computer software.