Course Description:  Explores the potential of the Internet to support inquiry-based learning through collaborative activities, research, and authoring/publishing. Investigates goals and methods of online learning. Examines learning theories and models of teaching/learning in relation to selected Internet activities for K–12, undergraduate students and learners in other fields outside education (e.g., work placed learning, non-formal learning).

 

Reflection:  I really appreciated having the chance to take this course.  The district I currently work in went 1:1 with Google Chromebooks three years ago, but was still really struggling to fully incorporate the technology or use it the way it really should have been.  Many of the teachers either weren't using the Chromebooks at all or would simply tell the students they were only supposed to type papers at their desks.  Learning with Web-based Technologies opened my eyes to all of the applications, games, and activities that are available for us as teachers and even students to use that still allow for meaningful and active learning to happen.

 

I remember for my final project for this course I decided to have my high school students create their own study guide for their final (with guidance) using Trello.  Trello is similar to Pinterest in the fact that students are able to create their own learning boards, add comments, pictures, examples, and more.  None of us (the students or myself) had ever used Trello before, so this was something we were going to learn together.  The class absolutely loved it!  On a survey I had sent out afterward they shared with me that they were thankful I had given them a way to review for an exam that wasn't the typical paper and pencil study guide.  Having me learn how to work the technology with them also added to the positive, welcoming learning environment that I aim to have in my classroom.  This was another great course to begin my program with as now I am constantly looking for ways to incorporate technology that will better foster a meaningful learning experience.