28 July 2010

Digital Tool 2: Concept Map

Concept maps are graphical tools for organizing and representing knowledge.

They allow for the categorisation of concepts in a hierarchal manner. This categorisation process is necessary for the first step of cognitive function as well as the first step to long term memory retention and higher order thinking.




This second concept map is an example of how the traditional static concept map can be transformed into an interactive higher order thinking, demonstration of deep understanding and links to long term memory retention.

14 July 2010

Digital Tool 10: Animations and Simulations


Press play to hear what I have to say!

Learning Styles

Learning Styles Inventory - Results Page
For User: Mary Scully
Your results

These are the results of your inventory. The scores are out of 20 for each style. A score of 20 indicates you use that style often.                                                                   


                                                                                             Memletic Learning Styles Graph:
Style Scores

Visual 7

Social 14

Physical 13

Aural 4

Verbal 15

Solitary 16

Logical 16

Discover your style by following this link

According to Learning-styles-online.com (Advanogy.com, 2003-2007), I have a preference for a predominantly solitary and logical learning style, however since the scores are almost equal, the presumption is that I have strengths across most styles with exception to visual and aural. Most who know me will argue about the aural score as even I recognise my inability to stop talking until you delve deeper and discover that this style is referring to learners who “like to work with sound and music” (Advanogy.com, 2003-2007).

I have only recently discovered the type of learning which suits me best:

• Simultaneously listening to lecturers, reading power point, writing what I hear and highlighting in various colours;

• Set a goal to achieve;

• Plan how I will achieve the goal;

• Work alone;

• Limit disruptions;

• Total immersion in topic;

• Explaining new knowledge to others;

• Applying new knowledge.

Only when I have had the opportunity to participate in all these activities can I truly achieve deeper understanding. However, I use different strengths for different situations.

As I said earlier, I have only recently discovered what works best for me, this has occurred due to a lot of trial and error, critical thinking about my current abilities and achievements, and consultation with professionals who have helped guide me and offer meaningful suggestions and strategies.

In a typical classroom, many students may not have consciously developed their own preference, they may need multiple opportunities to discover, refine and extend their ability to learn utilising their preferred style. As a future learning manager, I will provide a variety of opportunities for learners to engage, which will include ICT’s and digital pedagogy.