Annotated Bibliography #6

Cramer, S. R. (2007). Update your classroom with learning objects and twenty-first-century skills. Clearing House: A Journal of Educational Strategies, Issues and Ideas, 80(3), 126-132.

Summary & Reflection

This article introduces the topic of learning objects, a type of technology, and how to incorporate them and twenty-first-century skills into the classroom. I choose this article because it gave simple and practical ways of using technology and twenty-first-century skills in the classroom without being a techno-wiz. The article is not research based, but is research supported.

As described in the article, "learning objects are instructional materials found on the Internet that can be used to illustrate, support, supplement, or assess student learning" (Cramer, 2007, p. 126). Before reading this article I had never heard of the idea of learning objects. I find it a bit interesting that they are called learning objects, as I do not feel that name clearly defines what they are. According to the author, learning objects are "small in size" and "can take on a variety of different shapes, formats, and purposes" (Cramer, 2007, p. 126). A picture online, short video, reference article, data, digitized diary entries (such as possibly a blog), simulations, case studies, virtual field trips, tutorials, and charts are all examples of learning objects given by the author. It is easy to see how these items could be used to illustrate a concept, supplement a lesson, or to support a student by given additional information.

Bringing learning objects into the classroom will excite students, as they seem to be increasingly bored with the traditional methods of teaching. One great thing about learning objects is that they "can be used for whole-class instruction, for small-group learning stations, or by individuals at home or in school" (Cramer, 2007, p. 127). The author points out that these resources are available for various reading levels, and therefore, allow the teacher to find what will be most useful and appropriate for the students which will allow for differentiation.

The author reports studies supporting the benefits of learning from technology and learning with technology. I am sure there are studies that do not support technology, but nothing was said about them. The author reassures teachers that "integrating technology, learning objects, or twenty-first-century skills into your classroom is not an all-or-nothing endeavor" and instead can take place over time (Cramer, 2007, p. 131). I like that the author even points out that glitches with the technology will occur and they will provide the teacher an opportunity to demonstrate problem solving skills. She also lets the teacher know that pursuing this does not have to be done alone. The teacher can employ the help of the library or media specialist, or even students or parents, because even family involvement can be important to the curriculum.

This article was very insightful for me. I believe that if I had a classroom with technology capabilities, that I could easily integrate the ideas from the article into my curriculum. Students desire this, and I believe teachers have the responsibility to incorporate it into their lessons. I think it would be a decision that a teacher would never regret, as it would invigorate the classroom and cause the students to be engaged in learning.