Instructional Technology Conference 2009

Title: Web-Enhanced Lesson Frameworks for Elementary and Secondary Learners

Name: Dr. Beverly J. Boulware, Ms. Natasha Wells

Audience: Faculty, librarians, instructional technology specialists

Audience Level: beginning, all

Length: 1 Hour

Abstract: Though the use of creative aspects of computer-based technology, the presenters will discuss how they have used technology to transform traditional models of instruction into innovative web-based learning lessons designed for elementary and secondary school students. Specific examples will be highlighted that demonstrate the integration of literacy strategies in content area instruction.

Description: Teachers, researchers and theorists have recognized the potential for student learning computers provide in accessing a world of information and the opportunities for design that online learning makes possible. Using word processing and web-based publishing, teacher educators, public school faculty and pre-service teachers can easily transform traditional learning frameworks for elementary and secondary students into web-enhanced assignments by incorporating computer based features such as sound, motion, graphics, and/or charts.

The technological capacity of online learning lends itself to construction of assignments that are not only grounded in best practice, but also provides the opportunity for the development of creativity. Current technologies allow teachers to build original online learning designs. These tools are shaped to enhance the learning of the content studied,

engage students as agents of their own learning, and make use of available web-based resources. Dodge (1995) developed an online learning design that continues to be used successfully in our schools (Teclehaimanot & Lamb, 2004). It has been a springboard for the development of web learning units which are based upon a series of tasks and acknowledged as beneficial for teaching content area materials.

Through reflecting upon teaching practices, a review of the literature and discussions with colleagues, Dodge’s original webquest design has been modified it to fit specific learning frameworks used in instructing elementary and secondary students. This presentation will include ways inquiry models for learning social studies, math, and science content have been integrated with meaning-based reading strategies.

Given the prevalence of using web-enhanced learning tasks and their potential for fostering learning, the session will aim to achieve the following:

Discuss ways to modify research based content area methodologies into web-based learning designs. Present examples of reading, math, science and social studies teaching units utilizing instructional frameworks that integrate web-based learning tasks. Share ideas for revising web lesson examples to accommodate diverse student learning needs. Explore the impact these web-based patterns of design may have on future instruction in elementary and secondary schools.

Session Type: Lecture/Presentation

On-Site Equipment Requirements: internet access, screen, in-focus

Contact Information/Affiliation:
Dr. Beverly J. Boulware, Associate Professor of Education
Ms. Natasha Wells, MTSU Graduate Education Student
University affiliation: Middle Tennessee State University
Email addresses: boulware@mtsu.edu; nwells08@gmail.com
FAX: 817-272-2530
Phone: 817-898-2628
Address: Dept. of Elementary and Special Education, Box 69
Middle Tennessee State University
1301 East Main Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37132