Emerging Technologies for Teaching & Learning
Examination of emerging technologies as applied in educational settings with a focus on related research, case studies, theoretical underpinnings, and strategies for effective integration.
Emerging Technologies in Teaching and Learning was the first course I took in the M.Ed. program. In it, we assessed a wide range of emerging instructional technologies for classroom, remote, and blended learning environments. I found particular interest in learning through game-based learning, gamification, and serious games because these are proven methods for reaching at-risk kids.1 Learning through immersion, augmented and virtual realities, MOOCs, and mobile learning technologies also piqued my curiosity.
Teaching Spanish Through Game-Based Learning and Gamification
As a licensed Spanish teacher, I created a training video to introduce teaching K-12 Spanish via Game-Based Learning and Gamification. During this training, I walked the learner through four popular language-learning programs (LingQ, FluentU, Duolingo, and Polly Lingual), from setup to how to use each program. This was my first time creating an online video tutorial. I have since learned that I should not have read the screen in the voice-over.
The Worldwide Impact of MOOCs in K-12 Education: Disrupting the United States and Beyond
MOOCs, still an emerging technology, are Massive Open Online Courses. I was intrigued by this concept because MOOCs can be used worldwide to educate the masses. While Internet access is a requirement, MOOCs are generally free to access. They can be used to supplement K-12 curriculums in the U.S. as well as provide higher education opportunities or training to adults. What’s more, MOOCs can be utilized to educate immigrants, refugees, displaced K-12 students, and students in developing countries. This paper explores the both the strengths and limitations of MOOCs in their current state.
- Darling-Hammond, L., Zielezinski, M. B., & Goldman, S. (2014). Using technology to support at-risk students’ learning. Washington, DC: Alliance for Excellent Education.