Cognitive Theory says that people build upon prior experiences to learn. The majority of our students come with more technological background than ever before. Their prior experiences with technology prepare them for operating iPods and iPads without fear. As well, there are many apps that are levelled, moving you up as you achieve or learn from your 'prior experiences'.
Constructivist Theory says that people learn best by making sense of things on their own, needing only a guide. This is true with the iPod because students are actively engaged and do the work on their own or with a partner, figuring it out on their own. The teacher is still there to guide them in the right direction if they get stuck.
Instructional Learning Theory says a variety of methods should be used to reach all learning styles. With all of the apps now available, an iPod does this with ease. iPods and iPods are actively engaging for students so it instantly grabs their attention. Information is presented in an aesthetically pleasing way using things such as colourful pictures and animation, sounds, and interaction. Educational apps have many various different levels so that most any learner can practice their skills in a variety of ways. There are even a wide array of apps for communication disorders, so that students are now given a voice with the use of apps through which to communicate. And the most beneficial aspect to the students is feedback is immediate.
I am in support of the Instructional Learning Theory as it pertains to Bloom's Taxonomy. Benjamin Bloom heavily influenced the Instructional Learning Theory with his Taxonomy of educational objectives. There are 6 levels in the revised Taxonomy: remembering, understanding, applying, analyzing, evaluating, and creating. Here is a diagram that shows how different apps fit into each level, therefore showing how apps can increase learning at any level.
As stated above, Instructional Learning Theory says we must teach using a variety of methods to reach all learning styles. So, while I believe in Bloom's Taxonomy in regards to higher-level hinking, I also believe we have to use Howard Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligence in order to teach to the variety of learners in our classroom. "Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences states not only do human beings have several different ways of learning and processing information, but these methods are relatively independent of one another: leading to multiple "intelligences" as opposed to a general intelligence factor among correlated abilities" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howard_Gardner). This is why apps are so great for today's learners. There are apps available for every level. So, while some students may be focusing on phonetics with an app like ABC Phonics, other students may be past that level and working on comprehension with Robert Munsch's 6 Pack Tumble Books app. Apps can also be individualized in and of themselves. For instance, some students may wish to read Robert Munsch on their own, while others comprehend better while listening to the author read with a set of headphones. Regardless of the app being used, the information is right there when you want it.
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