digital learning collaborative research

"Top 10 Posts of 2012: Deep, Meaningful and Creative Learning"

"This educational consultant advises teachers to keep brain science in mind when figuring out how to help their students learn."

Beginning with student-focused goals allows us to ensure that we strategically prioritize time and resources in our classrooms. Although this way of thinking was initially designed for instructional units, it is also the perfect methodology for planning a new technology initiative.

Only a decade and a few years in, how can we fully describe the twenty-first century learner? So far, this we do know: She is a problem solver, critical thinker, and an effective collaborator and communicator. We also know that a deeper learning environment is required in order to nurture and grow such a learner.

The misconception for many is that if you start using social media, you are focusing on "technology" and not really what is important in schools. 

Thanks Sarah for this 'evidence' of need to look beyond the technology when considering value in school. Well written, but where does it fit into the wider consideration, and what philosophy/beliefs does it follow (or it a unique view warranting further examination?). For any blog apply such questioning as you find your way through the wonderland. J

A good overview of the big picture - future happening now...

Good one Sarah. Only problem is to paraphrase the Riddler in Batman and Robin, "so much information, so little time"

Dr Willis talked about her research as a neurologist and a teacher and explained what she believes transforms inputs into learning.

Software in the Cloud: HOT Common Core Online: HOT iPads: HOT Tablets Other Than iPads: LUKEWARM The Flipped Classroom: LUKEWARM Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): HOT Textbooks: LOSING STEAM Social Media as a Teaching and Learning Tool: LOSING STEAM E-portfolios: LUKEWARM Interactive Projectors and Whiteboards: LOSING STEAM

Monitoring anticipated tech changes

This is a very helpful glimpse. Very useful for focusing our precious energy, time and budget.

Technology can help educators train students' focus away from rote memorization toward deep conceptual learning by building on prior knowledge and making connections between concepts.

There are digital tools that can help achieve the goal of educational transfer, writes Kristen Swanson, an education consultant. Educational transfer occurs when students are able to use what they've learned in the classroom in new, real-life situations, she writes in this blog post. She also offers three goals for the new year, including the use of less text when designing and consuming multimedia