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=**Reflection for Embedded Assignment** =

In this course we created online learning experiences using Web 2.0 technologies for an online learning environment hosted by Schoology. The benefits to educators knowing how to design and implement online learning are numerous. The most important benefit that I see for an elementary school environment is the extension of the school day. In other words, teachers can use this type of environment to extend lessons and scaffold instruction. A teacher can group her students by ability levels, just like she would do in the classroom. The groups could be divided up into above level, on level, and below level. The teacher can then create lessons suitable for each group that reinforces what is being taught in the classroom. Teachers can also use an online learning environment for homework assignments, individual or group projects, intervention, and more. Although I there are many benefits in this type of learning environment, I found Schoology to be more suitable for the upper grades or for elementary schools with a built in technology time and/or a specialized technology teacher. This online learning environment is not user friendly for younger children. As such, younger children need a lot more modeling and practice on this type of system to become proficient enough to use. I also found Schoology not to be very inviting to young children. It needs more graphics and the ability to embed videos, not just link to them. However, on a more positive note, I may use Schoology to present lessons in class. For example, in my course I created a PowerPoint presentation and linked to a video for working a math problem backwards. I would show the video and PowerPoint and then ask the students to complete the assignment on the online course for homework. Additionally, I would ask them to post any questions on the blog for this assignment. At the end of the week, I might ask the students to take the online test on the mobile laptop cart or in the lab.

Even though, I found Schoology not to be the best resource for elementary school children, I can apply what I’ve learned so far to make a more interesting learning environment for my students. Since I’ve started my graduate studies, I’ve learned many things. During the course of creating this online learning environment, the most important thing I’ve learned is that children need to interact with their learning in a more engaging way, such as in an online learning environment. In the traditional classroom the roles or students and teachers are clearly defined: teachers present a lesson, model how to do it, and the students do it. They raise their hand if they need help and the teacher helps. Or, a student might read a story or chapter, answer the questions at the end of the chapter or in a workbook, and the teacher grades it and provides feedback. In the modern classroom the students take responsibility for their own learning. The teacher facilitates the student’s learning. According to the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (2009), “…The skills, knowledge and expertise students must master to succeed in work and life…is a blend of content knowledge, specific skills, expertise and literacy.” In the modern classroom, teachers must keep up with workforce needs and apply them to their teaching and delivery of instruction.

On another note, I felt extremely puzzled maneuvering my way through the Schoology site. If I was struggling to figure it out after a few weeks of using it, I wonder how long students would try it, before giving up.

Before attempting to try this online learning environment in my own classroom, I’d like to ask experts how successful students using the online learning environment are compared to those in a traditional classroom? Also, does success vary based on the student’s age? Do the younger learners perform better on state tests when their learning is strictly in an online environment? If not, how can we best balance both environments to help our children.

Source Cited:

Partnership for 21st Century Skills (2009). //Framework for 21st Century Learning.// Retrieved May 15, 2010, from http://www.p21.org/documents/P21_Framework.pdf.