This week in ED 307 I learned about Constructivism. Constructivism is a learning theory that suggests learning takes place through experiences. For this module, I created a Zentation presentation on Constructivism. I described constructivism, theorists behind constructivism, the differences between constructivism and traditional teaching and learning, the PAR model of learning, and a scenario of me using the PAR model to teach a topic. I provided the Zentation presentation below. 

I have heard about the Constructivist theory since my first class at Athens State. I had actually never heard of the PAR Model until this lesson. I found it really interesting and I think it is a great guide for writing lesson plans. Zentation was very easy to use. I had trouble getting my video to upload to YouTube from my laptop, so I had to record the video on my laptop on my iPhone and upload using my data. Luckily, it worked. Zentation mirrors Tegrity, except Zentation is free. I think Zentation is great for a flipped classroom or even for when a teacher misses school. If the teacher knows they are going to miss school ahead of time, they can prepare a Zentation presentation and have the substitute show the video to the class. 

This week in ED 307 I learned about Module 2: The Flipped Classroom. A flipped classroom involves the lesson being taught outside of the classroom. The time in the classroom will be spent on activities and discussions. The main goal of a flipped classroom is to enhance student learning and achievement. Class time is spent on student understanding rather than on lecture. I made a video explaining what a flipped classroom is and the benefits of a flipped classroom. 

Flipped classrooms are becoming more and more popular today. There are many benefits for both students and teachers. 

The first time I heard of the flipped classroom strategy was in high school. I never was actually taught using the flipped classroom approach, but I had a teacher explain how she was going to try it the next school year. 
I think flipped classroom is a great strategy. I do not think it should be used for every single lesson, but I am excited to try it out! Before this module, when I thought of a flipped classroom I thought of students watching a video lecture at home. Although this is very common, I learned that there are many other ways students can view a lesson. There are class discussion boards, interactive assignments, animated videos, etc. I do not think I would like having a completely flipped classroom. If I feel like the traditional classroom setting will better benefit the students than a flipped approach, I will do that. I want to always use strategies and approaches for the benefit of my students. 

This week in ED 307 we studied 21st century skills. We read and explored the Partnership for 21st Century Skills and the report Are They Really Ready to Work? The assignment for this week included making an infographic which I included down below. This is the first infographic I have ever created, but I really enjoyed doing so. I know it is not the best, but practice makes perfect! 

​We live in such a digital age. As a future educator, I feel as if I must be one step ahead. Whether students grow up to be workplace ready falls on the educators. Some of the critical skills that employers believe to be essential in the workplace are listed in my infographic. Educators need to be very familiar with 21st century skills as technology is ever evolving. Partnership for 21st Century Skills encourages educators, as well as districts and states, to infuse technology into education.