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Respose to week 5 readings

At what age can online/digital literacy activities be integrated into the classroom?

Online/digital literacy activities can be integrated into the classroom as early as pre-school years.  Teaching with the Internet K-12 described some instructional models which can be used in primary classrooms.  As I explored the chapter, I noticed some different ideas which can easily be integrated into the classroom.  For example, internet workshops, internet projects, and internet inquiry can be used to support and enrich digital literacy learning for young children.  Implementation of some of these suggestions into the classroom can help students learn early skills such as the alphabet and early math skills.  PBS Between the Lions has been developed for students between the ages of 4 to 7 years of age.  The site features games coloring sheets, stories, video clips and much more.  This site would be a nice addition to any pre-school or primary classroom. The chapter also provided a link to Enchanted Learning, a site that I would often use in my classroom to integrate digital literacy. My students would research an animal of their choice by using Enchanted Learning and writing a research paper.  Enchanted Learning is a great site for teachers, students and parents because it is comprehensive and easy to use. Digital literacy activities should be introduced at an early age because they can teach a wealth of information in a fun and engaging way which can motivate children to become lifelong learners. Most importantly, opportunities to explore digital literacy activities at a young age will provide students with the technology skills they will need for high school, college and beyond.

What is a 21st Century Learning Environment?

A 21^st century learning environment is an environment where all  students learn best and individual learning needs and styles are accommodated by access to quality learning tools, technologies and resources. In addition, the 21^st century learning environment fosters healthy human relationships in order to ensure operative learning.  Twenty-first century learning supports professional learning communities for educators and project based learning for students. The architectural design of a 21^st century learning environment is beneficial to group, team and individual learning. The framework is aligned closely to the idea of developing children who are emotionally, socially, physically and academically prepared to succeed in the world.

 The following YouTube video explains 21st century learning environments in more detail and how to create classroom which is focused around community, collaboration, technology and networking.  

As a classroom teacher, I have always believed that children learn best from their peers.  The seating arrangement of my desks were in groups in order promote collaboration, healthy relationships and meaningful discourse. Students were not only required to learn core subjects such a language arts, math and science but were also introduced to problem solving, critical thinking and inquiry through group work. I have always used the cooperative learning model in my classroom because my goal was for the students to become active learners. Throughout the past few years, Clinton Avenue School has put forward an initiative to improve student learning by providing more opportunities for student discourse. Teachers have implemented strategies such as turn and talk, and literature circles which all enhance vocabulary and offer opportunities for students to articulate thoughts and ideas as well as becoming good listeners. We have found that committing these adult actions has improved instruction and   student outcomes. Students have become active participants in the learning process which in turn enables students to effectively apply their knowledge.

Digital Story Survey

Here is the link to my digital story!