Reflection
I believe I am to the right of the middle of the static-dynamic continuum. I tend to begin my first and second graders at the static end of the continuum. We do internet searches, PowerPoint, and use multimedia software (KidPix) to create presentations. Then in third and fourth grade we move towards the dynamic end of the continuum employing wikis and Skype. Because they are so young and there is much they do not yet know (like how to read) I am limited in how far I can take them once a week for 45 minutes. However, much of our class discussions move up and down the continuum as we discuss technology and they relate what they know or have seen mom, dad, or the siblings do. Most are very familiar with text messaging although most have not participated in it yet (mostly because you need to know how to read and spell to text). Because of the level I currently teach at, moving further down the continuum would require that I have the students more often and for a longer period of time. First graders all pretty much start from the same point every year. They are more “computer savvy” however, their skills are not.
Personally for me, I (currently use and) expect to see a huge leap towards the dynamic end of the continuum after I have gotten my degree and get a new job, hopefully teaching online. But in considering distance education, I believe that it would be a fallacy to think that the “best” practice is to be completely on the dynamic end of the continuum. There is good and necessity in the static end and the middle. Students need to learn how to utilize all of these skills. Some, students and teachers alike, need to be encouraged to move beyond “middle”.
References
Fahy, P. (2008). Characteristics of interactive online learning media. In Anderson, T. (Ed.) The theory and practice of online learning (2nd ed.). (pp. 167-199). Edmonton, AB: AU Press, Athabasca University.
McGreal, R & Elliott, M. (2008). Technologies of online learning (e-learning). In Anderson, T. (Ed.) The theory and practice of online learning (2nd ed.). (pp. 143-165). Edmonton, AB: AU Press, Athabasca University.
Moller, L. (2008). Static and dynamic technological tool. [Unpublished Paper].
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For Module 5, I responded to the following blogs:
William Goldstein
http://billgoldstein.blogspot.com/Lynne Butkiewicz
http://waldentechnology.blogspot.com/******************************
