Thursday, March 26, 2015

EDUC 7105 - Cognitivist Approaches in Tech Education

           Cognitivism, as a learning theory, enables one to understand how information has been processed within their brain. Cognitivism further delineates an approach to educating that has practical applications for optimizing learning. Kerr (2007) and Kapp (2007) both address the role of cognitivism for real-world learning application taking place in classrooms across America. When a teacher, for example, expresses his/her expectations the expected outcome usually, as Kapp (2007) points out, involves both cognitive and behavioristic approaches to achieve the expected the outcome. This occurs because the outcome has involved both observable and intrinsic applications. The pervasive use of technology in classrooms today is helping to change this view.
Students are able to learn cognitively with the aid of technology. Technology can encourage cognitive learning by creating stimulating, networked environments for students to learn. The AECT (2001) refers to technology as form of “instructional communication.” Technological tools are used, for example, to help foster communication. AECT (2001) identifies communicating as a cognitive processes implemented to optimize learning through technological tools that enhance learning. Therefore, classroom technology can help to create engaging learning opportunities by furthering enable to communicate. Cognitive processes are prevalently used in classrooms today that are enhanced by educational technology. 

References
AECT (2001, August 3). Learning with technology:using computers as cognitive tools. Retrieved                  from http://www.aect.org/edtech/ed1/24/index.html
Kerr, B. (2007, January 1). _isms as filter, not blinker [Web log post]. Retrieved from
Kapp, K. (2007, January 2). Out and about: Discussion on educational schools of thought [Web log               post]. Retrieved from http://www.ulqcl.com/kappnotes/index.php/2007/01/out-and-about-                      discussion-on-educational/
I responded to the following blogs:
  • http://kietzeroweds.wikispaces.com/EDUC
  • http://isaacu.blogspot.com

7 comments:

  1. Bianca,

    You mention using technology for communication. This is a factor we struggle with in our middle school. We have a great Lesson management system that allows for contact, but the students do not like to use it, they want to use more social media such as Facebook or Twitter or Skype. What are your feeling about a teacher/student contact on a site such as Facebook or other similar sites.

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    Replies
    1. Hi Kelly,

      Good question. In my opinion, schools need to evolve there stance on social media use for education and embrace the fact that student are well versed in these tools. I think the schools, through their curricular of social media, can also provide a better example of how to properly use social media tools to help make students more responsible. I welcome your thoughts on this as well!

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  2. Bianca,

    Do you think educational technology is still active in its role of providing classroom technology that will help create learning opportunities and at the same time enable communication?

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  3. Hi Isaac,

    I think educational can accomplish both, however, in my opinion, the use of technology as a learning and communication tool is at the discretion of the teacher. Do you find classrooms using technology as a learning and communication tool?

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  4. Bianca,

    No, as I can't really say.

    Isaac

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    Replies
    1. How is technology being used in your profession?

      Delete
  5. Bianca,

    Technology is still used in teaching and learning but not to the fullest when compared to countries like USA and UK.

    Isaac

    ReplyDelete