Module 4 Reflection: Technology-Based Support and Assessment

How can technology be used most effectively to support and assess student learning?

Digital compilation seems the biggest avenue for effective use. Students have access at all hours and from a myriad of location. Whether they use a class blog, class website, or class wiki, a central hub of information is at the forefront of supporting student learning.

For example, a classroom website with links to downloads (syllabus, assignments, etc.), websites, and other tools gives students a constant in the otherwise ever-changing world of technology. Bookmarks prove ineffective when URL's change or become outdated, so a website would reduce the reliance on bookmarks.

A class wiki seems like a terrific way for compiling student research. I hesitate a little bit to include assignments here because a student could always sabotage another's work, intentionally or not. However, if all the students had something at stake (such as a assignment based on the data compiled on the wiki), that might reduce the risk of intentional sabotage.

Of course, relying too much on technology has its disadvantages, especially when the technology fails. Hard copies assignment could help here, but it doesn't work in the case where students make videos or podcasts.

When it comes to assessing student learning, there is always the risk that students may plagiarize. If a group of students were to do an Othello rap video (kinda PG-13), then they might copy another video almost shot for shot. Of course, given the nature of such resources, it's hard to envision how anyone could check the students' originality (like Turnitin).

However, if creative synthesis is to take place, then maybe resources like these should be utilized. After all, when we begin assessing the higher levels of Bloom's Taxonomy of Learning, we seek such creative endeavors.

For example, if students are to have their own blogs where they post reflections, assignments, etc., then they would learn 21st century skills along with time management--namely, being responsible for keeping up with it over an extended period of time.

Technology has its place in today's learning environment. While any adjustment can be expected at the outset, teachers and students unfamiliar or unacquainted with technological tools will find their benefits most welcome.