Software Technology Action Reflection LEGACY modules are a great idea. The five-step cycle seems to serve its purpose as an organizational method. Schwart et al. stated, "Teachers felt that they could instantly "see" the learning cycle, especially the idea of progressive deepening." I haven't had the opportunity to see this model in action, but I can imagine how teachers can view student progress by using this model. Overall, I think that STAR has a good foundation but needs some work. I agree with the assessments and reflections, but I can't totally agree with the students that may not recall prior knowledge being held to the same standards as others. This may become a problem when instructors are attempting to make a specific point about a topic. Maybe if the instructor knew the average level of prior knowledge, he or she can then know where to begin. Once this average is set, students should collaborate more effectively to solve the problem at hand.
I would like to use STAR LEGACY sometime in the near future. Specifically, I will find topics that are difficult to teach or subjects that may be difficult for learners to understand.
Once again, Google Docs is a great tool that can be used for the problem or challenge to be solved. Students can collaborate, sharing research ideas within one application. STAR resources are provided as multimedia resources in which Google Docs makes it easy to accept many forms of.
Paul -
ReplyDeleteI am glad you mention "but I can't totally agree with the students that may not recall prior knowledge being held to the same standards as others". I remember reading this but I am not sure it really resonated with me until now. I have to agree with you that this would seem to be problematic. I can see students who can apply that prior knowledge feeling that they have to "carry" the ones who cannot. I also can see that students who cannot recall that prior knowledge being less willing to voice their struggles because they are afraid of being judged. This could create a situation of the divide becoming greater (not less) with the possibility that the dichotomy is not recognized until it is too late.