i-manager's Journal on School Educational Technology (JSCH)


Volume 9 Issue 4 March - May 2014

Article

Constructivist Learning Environments and Defining the Online Learning Community

Loren Brown*
Liberty University
Brown,L. (2014). Constructivist Learning Environments And Defining The Online Learning Community.i-manager’s Journal on School Educational Technology, 9(4), 1-6. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.9.4.2704

Abstract

The online learning community is frequently referred to, but ill defined. The constructivist philosophy and approach to teaching and learning is both an effective means of constructing an online learning community and it is a tool by which to define key elements of the learning community. In order to build a nurturing, self-sustaining online learning community, teachers who follow the constructivist philosophy allow students to self-discover, to evaluate and reflect on the progress innate to their own learning, while providing the function of a guide and a coach during the learning process. A constructivist learning environment is evident by students who take charge of their own learning outcomes in a student-centered environment, by students who work collaboratively with other students to create their own goals and learning parameters, and by the demonstration of respect for other learners whose approaches and experiences are extensively different. The online learning community is defined by the idea that effective learning and the presence of a community are intrinsically linked. Community is established and reinforced when staff and other students interact in a manner that demonstrates genuine caring for each other, which in turn translates into increased learning and teaching efficacy. The constructivist approach creates effective learning environments by forming, fostering, and maintaining the presence of community in the distance learning venue.

Article

Rubrics and Evaluations

J. Skelton* , C. Rodgers**, L. Ellis***, A. Lyles****
*-**-***-**** Faculty, Doctoral Dissertation Mentor, University of Phoenix
J. Skelton, C. Rodgers, L. Ellis and A. Lyles (2014). Rubrics And Evaluations. i-manager's Journal on School Educational Technology, 9(4), 7-13. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.9.4.2708

Abstract

The authors' discussion will describe how classroom leaders at every academic level can use rubrics as a means of selfassessment. This strategy and the use of the rubric as a tool can help to provide effective feedback that can develop into a constant reflection of how effectively a teacher focuses on student success by means of their instructional success. There are many theories on pedagogy but many do not tie leadership and self-evaluation at the end of the day or week. The authors look to expose a gap in literature that could assist teachers in staying motivated in their instruction and bridge the gap of status-quo instruction with the need to set goals and exceed those self-created goals with student success.

Research Paper

An Integrated Approach to the Teaching and Learning of Science and Mathematics Utilizing Technology – The Teachers' Perspective

Jennifer Johnston* , Maire Ni Riordain**, Grainne Walshe***
* Head of Education, St. Patrick's College, Thurles.
** Lecturer in Education, NUI Galway.
*** Research Scholar, NCE-MSTL, University of Limerick.
Johnston,J., Riordain,M,N., & Walshe,G. (2014). An Integrated Approach to the Teaching and Learning of Science and Mathematics Utilising Technology – The Teachers' Perspective.i-manager’s Journal on School Educational Technology, 9(4), 14-26. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.9.4.2709

Abstract

The concept and importance of curriculum integration in Science and Mathematics has come to the fore in the recent years (Czerniak, 2007). Ireland's Science and Mathematics performance is well documented and extensively reported in the media and elsewhere (e.g. Expert Group on Future Skills Needs, 2008; Task Force on the Physical Sciences, 2002). Concern primarily lies with the post-primary students' underperformance in science and mathematics, coupled with a failure to make a successful transition to third level scientifically and mathematically orientated undergraduate courses. The aim of this study was to design, develop, implement and evaluate an integrated approach to the teaching and learning of Science and Mathematics in second level schools in Ireland. This was undertaken through the integration of a handheld graphic calculator known as ‘TI-NspireTM’ into first year classes (age 12 -13 year olds) of science and mathematics. This integration was assisted by the development and implementation of a unit of learning on distance, speed and time, with specific lesson plans which integrated the teaching and learning of both subjects by utilising the TINspireTM. The methodology of this research project was an exploratory year-long case study of three second level schools in Ireland and their implementation of the unit of learning in their respective schools. This paper focuses on the teachers' perspective of the integration of mathematics and science teaching and learning utilising technology. The study was qualitative in nature and was evaluated through a teacher's perspective where a teacher focuses on group interviews and independent lesson observations. The key finding emerging from the data is that the integration of mathematics and science was lost in coping with the technology demands required in implementing the unit of learning.

Research Paper

Ergonomic Based Design and Survey of Elementary School Furniture

Maheshwar* , C. S. Jawalkar **
*_** Department of Production Engineering, PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh.
Maheshwar., & Jawalkar,C,S (2014). Ergonomic Based Design and Survey of Elementary School Furniture.i-manager’s Journal on School Educational Technology, 9(4), 27-31. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.9.4.2710

Abstract

This paper presents the ergonomic aspects in designing and prototyping of desks cum chairs used in elementary schools. The procedures adopted for the assessment included- the study of existing school furniture, design analysis and development of prototypes. The design approach proposed a series of adjustable desks and chairs developed in terms of ergonomic concepts. In the development stage, the production cost, ease of management, installation and storage were the important factors undertaken. A questionnaire based subjective comfort evaluation survey was carried out on the developed prototypes and the results showed good response and satisfaction levels upto an overall 94 %. The details on the ergonomically designed prototype, its development process and customer satisfaction survey have been elaborated in this paper.

Research Paper

Understanding Modular Learning - Developing a Strategic Plan to Embrace Change

Jill Friestad-Tate* , Carol Schubert**, Craig McCoy***
*_**_*** Kaplan University
Friestad-Tate,J., Schubert,C., & Mccoy,C (2014). Understanding Modular Learning - Developing A Strategic Plan to Embrace Change.i-manager’s Journal on School Educational Technology, 9(4), 32-44. https://doi.org/10.26634/jsch.9.4.2711

Abstract

The purpose of this descriptive paper was to explore and synthesize literature related to understanding modular learning and how it can be implemented effectively so faculty members embrace its use. An in-depth review of literature addressed topics including, Educational Theories supporting modular learning, the development of modular learning, and innovations in education and technology. Researchers analyzed language patterns used in the literature to develop a common language for and understanding of the concept. Analysis and recommendations as well as a proposed definition of modular learning are included.