Journal #2 Finding Students Who Learn Through Media NETS-T# ,3,4,5

Bull, G. (2010). Finding Students who Learn with Media. Learning and Leading with Technology, 37(6). Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=February_No_5_4&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4495&ContentID=25255&DirectListComboInd=D

This article was interesting and explored the use of web-based authoring system. The tool allowed students to create their own media pages as well as creating documentaries, and storboards. The students could be effective collaborators whien using digital tools such as this. The program encouraged student to complete storyboard activities, as well as written work on the lesson. A reflection of their personal work is an important aspect in learning, especially when digital technology allows methods to incorporate resources in the classroom. The different learning styles need to be introduced in the curriculum, adaptive for all learners. When teachers can do this they not only allow their students to succeed; but this adaptation also might create an environment in an inclusive classroom. Students benifit from using a variety of tools to express or show information they have collected. A useful tool mentioned in this article was the production of a classroom assessment scoring system, which allows teachers to further evaluate effective teaching methods by measuring the amount of time students were participating. New technology allows teachers to evaluate class interaction as well as grading their performance on assignments. These are great goals for teachers to have, because it makes their lesson plans more effective and can contribute to the overall environment of the class.


The article also reflects on the academic level of the students, and compared that to the needs of others. Every student is at a different level and tools such as this give the teacher the opportunity to meet the needs of all students. The article mentioned heterogeneous grouping, which is a mixture of levels. This is used to help students who may not be as comfortable with the material, to be grouped with other students who are "technologically sound" and this interaction allows everyone to be engaged in the media. This partnering of students blends students with different strengths to teach them collaboration which is key to implementing technology in the classroom. While implementing this remember to not have the "advanced" student keep helping the same student who is struggling, switch partner so nobody feels restricted.

What are some ways teachers can help student learn though media?
Teachers should have several digital tools to use in the classroom . The ability to interact in a virtual world is an important skill all students should be able to do. Technology gives students the opportunity to create and incorporate custom learning, which will be more meaningful when the subject matter needs to be recalled.

What subject areas should incorporate digital tools?
The amazing thing about using digital tools is that students at every age level can participate. There are endless possibilities becuase their are age appropriate tools to create and complete assignments. The students are excited to work with computers and other technologies because they have been exposed to it at such an early age. Some teachers have come to find that the students are more familiar with programs and other resources than their teacher.