Week 1

Each learner that we come across is an individual, different from their peers, best friend and even sibling and each has their own style of learning. The most commonly known learning styles are that of;

Although this does not mean that learners should only be taught in their strongest style; an auditory learner should be provided any opportunities for hands on learning and you should provide kinaesthetic learners with visual support. Students need to be provided with a balance of learning approaches so they are capable in all areas. The use of technology in teaching can provide opportunities for students to learn in all areas, through visual aids, videos, simulations, etc.

Another learning style theory that I had heard of before this week but was not overly familiar with is the multiple intelligence theory by Howard Gardner. This theory is more complex and claims that we are each made up of several different intelligences.

 The definitions for these intelligences and also to take a quiz on your own intelligence, can be found at http://www.bgfl.org/bgfl/custom/resources_ftp/client_ftp/ks3/ict/multiple_int/index.htm

My results for the quiz can be seen here... 

From these results it can be seen that I am highest in people smarts so I will be able to effectively connect with my students and their families. Although it would be very challenging to engage children who are music smart as I am very low in this area. Also it can be observed that I would find Maths easier over language.   

Through understanding about how your students best learn, you will be able to develop strategies to effectively teach them and get the most out of a lesson. This can be done through allowing them to take the online quiz or just observing how they respond to different activities in the classroom.

During this week we also looked at the different learning theories, although I have heard of these before I have not fully understood them. Through looking at a mind map as follows I have developed a better understanding. Mind maps such as these are a great tool for learners, they can easily be created together using programs such as bubbl.us or popplet 

Welcome

As learners are growing and changing with each passing year, I believe that as teachers it is important that we also adapt to these changes. One of the greatest areas of change I have observed is in the area of technology. Not too long ago classrooms may have been lucky to have one computer and a projector in the room, although now days it’s not uncommon to see multiple computers, laptops, iPads and interactive whiteboards. Throughout this course I hope to learn how to better incorporate these technologies into the classroom to further and engage students and enhance their learning. Through this blog I hope to be able to share what I have learnt with you in order to help you also advance your knowledge.