2.3 Authentic Learner
Candidates model and facilitate the use of digital tools and resources to engage students in authentic learning experiences. (PSC 2.3/ISTE 2c)
Artifact: Engaged Learning Project
Reflection: The artifact that I have decided to use for this standard is the Engaged Learning Project. I created the Engaged Learning Project with my classmate, Kenya Ransey, during the summer of 2013 in ITEC 7400. The project was created for first grade students. Engaging in the lesson from the perspective of scientist, students studied the water cycle and examined freshwater samples to identify macroinvertebrates. Then, they Skyped with classes in different parts of the country to determine if the same macroinvertebrates were present in their freshwater samples. A local water specialist visited the class and spoke to the students concerning how this activity relates to his job in real life.
Standard 2.3, Authentic Learning states, “Candidates model and facilitate the use of digital tools and resources to engage students in authentic learning experiences.” This standard establishes the need for students of all ages to have real world learning experiences. In the Engaged Learning Project, students engaged in the higher levels of LoTi by communicating with other students studying the same material using Skype. Also, the lesson arranged for a water specialist to visit the class. The water specialist provided a “real world” connection for the students by explaining to them how their activity of research in the class was similar to what he does in real life. Students’ created a presentation of their findings in pairs.
From completing the Engaged Learning Project, I learned how fun and uncomplicated creating an authentic learning experience could be for students and teachers. Oftentimes, teachers complain about the lack of time. Honestly, it really did not take anymore time to plan this lesson. A few extra details in the lesson created a memorable learning experience for a group of first graders. The lesson could be extended to include other forms of life that existed in the water sample such as the types of algae or other plant types.
The work that went into developing this artifact impacted student learning at my school because it created an authentic learning experience for students. Students were able to make real world connections throughout the learning experience. In addition, the lesson exposed them to a particular career area that most students probably knew very little about. The impact of this assignment will be assessed informally as students decided on their career choice later in the school year. The assignment will be formally assessed by viewing the presentations that were created.
Standard 2.3, Authentic Learning states, “Candidates model and facilitate the use of digital tools and resources to engage students in authentic learning experiences.” This standard establishes the need for students of all ages to have real world learning experiences. In the Engaged Learning Project, students engaged in the higher levels of LoTi by communicating with other students studying the same material using Skype. Also, the lesson arranged for a water specialist to visit the class. The water specialist provided a “real world” connection for the students by explaining to them how their activity of research in the class was similar to what he does in real life. Students’ created a presentation of their findings in pairs.
From completing the Engaged Learning Project, I learned how fun and uncomplicated creating an authentic learning experience could be for students and teachers. Oftentimes, teachers complain about the lack of time. Honestly, it really did not take anymore time to plan this lesson. A few extra details in the lesson created a memorable learning experience for a group of first graders. The lesson could be extended to include other forms of life that existed in the water sample such as the types of algae or other plant types.
The work that went into developing this artifact impacted student learning at my school because it created an authentic learning experience for students. Students were able to make real world connections throughout the learning experience. In addition, the lesson exposed them to a particular career area that most students probably knew very little about. The impact of this assignment will be assessed informally as students decided on their career choice later in the school year. The assignment will be formally assessed by viewing the presentations that were created.