The true power of technology is not in learning to use it, but rather using it to learn. The device (by itself) isn’t the magic, all the ways students can learn with it is! Don’t be a district that puts the device first or is swayed by fancy gadgets and buzzwords! Put the learning first. How can teachers leverage their devices to motivate learning and ensure that we keep student learning the priority.
5 Critical Approaches:
- Loosen Up Pace
- Personalize Learning
- Support Independent Learning
- Teach for Understanding
- Create the Conditions for Student (self) Motivation
Leveraging Technology To Motivate Students
- Tech for Loosening Up Pace: How does technology help us provide some flexibiliy of timeframe for student learning?
- Tech for Personalizing Learning: How does technology help us tailor the learning to the student?
- Tech for Supporting Independent Learning: How can technology help the student do more on their own and need the teacher less?
- Plain English Instructional Model
- Teach for Understanding
- Tech for Foundational Knowledge: How can we help students learn the basics?
- Tech for Practice and Deepening Understanding
- Tech for Using Knowledge: How can we contextualize learning and make learning engaging and meaningful? How can students use their knowledge? What is the role for creating and creativity, and for project-based learning?
- Tech for Assessment: How can technology help us capture what students know and can do?
- Creating the Conditions for Students to be Motivated
Additional Resources:
Mike’s Sites:
- McMEL (Maine Center for Meaningful Engaged Learning)
- Blog: MultiplePathways.info
- Learning Through Technology Blog: MoreVerbs.info
- Micro-credentials Project: iLearnMaine.org
- Mike’s Consulting: StudentLearning.Guru
- Mike’s Day Job: (Learning Through) Tech Director, MSAD 44 (Bethel, ME)
Student Learning Guru 