We know that it is important for educators to utilize the most up to date technical resources as a tool to enhance the educational experiences of our students (Siemens, 2008). Additionally, the mixing of formal and informal strategies is imperative to have a successfully learning experience (Siemens, 2008).
Furthermore, students must have clear directions on how to complete the assignments, and a clear understanding of how they are going to be assessed. Most useful tool is the rubric to help students to understand what is expected of them. Instructors must give immediate feedback and assist students in a timely and prompt manner (Durrington, Berrhill, & Swafford, 2006).
References:
Durrington, V. A., Berryhill, A., & Swafford, J. (2006). Strategies for enhancing student interactivity in an online environment. College Teaching, 54(1), 190−193. Academic Search Premier database; Accession Number: 19754742
Siemens, G. (2008, January). Learning and knowing in networks: Changing roles for educators and designers. ITForum.
Hi Sandra,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that a rubric is the most effective assessment tool. Students know what is expected of them. As long as they follow the directions of the rubric, nothing can go wrong. It is important that the instructor make the directions clear and to the point. I use rubrics with my second grade students. I make sure they understand what is expected of them. I also give them examples of what is expected. It is important to model for elementary age studets.
Tracy
Sandra,
ReplyDeleteI love that with all these complex tools something as simple as a rubric can be one of the most effective. In my classroom, the students have to complete a mountains/river project. With this project a rubric is sent home so that the students and the parents will know what is expected. Do you use rubric within you 2nd grade class? -Belinda V
Sandra,
ReplyDeleteI love that you included virtual communities. I suppose that we all included certain communities (Twitter, listservs, etc) in our organizers, but the way you phrased it made me think of even more. For example, none of us included sites like Second Life or other online gaming communities. While these may not seem like academic settings, there are several organizations embracing the technology for educational purposes. Professional organizations would be another example of a virtual community in some respects. Great post - thanks.
I agree Sandra that rubrics are very important. The types of assignments that we have within our learning environment are not your typical gradable assignments that you usually find within K-12 education. Having these rubrics are vital so the student can know what is expected of them and by also allowing them to realistically determine what their grade will be based on your work.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing!
Ashley