Eclectic Technology

This post is geared to courses being offered through iTunes U  but many of the ideas and tools may be helpful for any online class. The list includes:

* Describe clear learning outcomes

* Articulate an active learning pathway

* Incorporate diverse learning materials

* Make it interactive

* Leverage mobility and built-in tools

* Leave the classroom

* Start from scratch

* Apply the SAMR model to your class tasks

Although the apps provided are geared to the iPad the SAMR model provides ideas that you might use with other tablets or computers.

Are much of what we know about learning styles is accurate? This infographic explores learning styles and shares current information that may make you reconsider some of your beliefs.

The infographic is split into three sections:

* What are the main learning styles

* What truth lies beneath

* Dubunking the myth of learning style

Are you considering re-writing some curriculum and incorporating gaming? This infographic provides a great template to help guide you through the process. The six steps are shown in the image above and clicking through to the post will provide additional information on each step. And for those that may be viewing with seeing the image the six steps are below:

* Learning Outcomes

* Big Idea

* Storyboard the Game

* Learning Activities

* Build the Team

* Add Game Dynamics

The Habits of Mind come into play when you think about how to solve problems. They are not performed in isolation. When a problem arises you are drawn to the skills necessary to solve it. As teachers we may choose to use the Habits of Mind as we consider skills we want our students to learn and to use in the classroom. For more information on the habits (with a more thoughtful discussion on each of them) check out Chapter 2 of the book "Learning and Leading with the Habits of Mind" available on the ASCD website at http://www.ascd.org/publications/books/108008/chapters/describing-the-habits-of-mind.aspx.