Cognitive learning theories are based in information processing. This processing starts with sensory input when you receive the information and proceeds to short term memory where you work with the information. Finally the information is transferred to long term memory as the learner begins to make connections. The more connections that are made in long term memory, the easier the information is to access. For information to become part of the long term memory, it must be networked as declarative, procedural, or episodic (Laureate Press, Inc., 2008a). As a teacher, we need to provide as many connections as possible for the information to become long term knowledge for our students.
Using advanced organizers and cues is one area where one can use technology-based cognitive learning tools. As a new concept is being introduced, a teacher can use multimedia presentations with graphics to stimulate the sensory input by auditory and visual means. As the teacher proceeds with the learning, an advance organizer with cues and questions may be used to produce deeper learning from lower order questions (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). This can also lead to higher order questions. As the student is looking at the organizer, they can be given the ability to take notes in a word processing program with a template. This will help them sort through the information using cognitive skills. As a teacher guides the students through the note-taking process, the information connections can be made that will move the information into long term memory using the declarative experience (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).
Dr. Orey discusses “episodic experiences” as being a powerful cognitive tool. The virtual field trip is a good example of using an episodic learning tool (Laureate Press, Inc., 2008b). The students are able to go places they may never go and see things in the virtual field trip that will make an impression and a connection. These virtual field trips present information both through visual and auditory experiences. This will increase the sensory input and increase the chance that knowledge will move from short-term to long-term memory. As a world language teacher, this is a tool that I can use to enhance the classroom experience. Many of my students may never travel to some of the places we discuss in class. A virtual field trip will give them a chance to experience some of the culture as well as the country.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program five. Cognitive Learning Theories. [Motion picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program six. Spotlight on Technology: Virtual Field Trips. [Motion picture]. Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology. Baltimore: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Hello Carla, I am one of the co-authors of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. We have noticed a lot of thoughtful posts like this popping up lately. Is this part of a class project of some sort? If so, what is the class and/or professor? BTW, you might want to check out McREL's blog at http://mcrel.typepad.com/mcrel_blog/.
ReplyDeleteOne of the things that caught me by surprise when I started teaching was that the majority of my students do not travel to different places. Our Ohio county, Mahoning County, is on the border of the state of Pennsylvannia, but very few of my students have ever been to Pennsylvannia. We are located less than a 4 hour drive hour from Niagara Falls and 8 hours from the east coast, but when I ask my students if they have been to either place, about 90% will answer no. Since I grew up going on vacations and now travel with my children, I guess I assumed my students got to see other places.
ReplyDeleteNow that I am more familiar with virtual field trips, I plan on using them in my instruction. Of course, it's not the same as being there, but it is the next best thing. Like you said, it will provide them with an episodic experience that they will be more likely to remember later.
Carla,
ReplyDeleteI've never heard the title " World Language Teacher". I'm assuming you teach high school. Can you give me a brief description of what you teach in this class? I'm just curious. Thanks!
As others have stated, many of my students rarely travel outside of their own state - South Carolina. Some have never seen the ocean! It is not financially possible to take these students to all of the wonderful places I was taken as a child. As a teacher herself, my mother insisted that every vacation had educational value. My brothers and I have visited many national landmarks and museums. Virtual field trips provide a way for all students to experience these same places without leaving the classroom.
ReplyDeleteMatt,
ReplyDeleteI am reading your book in a class through Walden University Online and the class title is Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction and Technology and is taught by Virgil Kirk.