Instructional Design In Ed Tech

 Online Learning Theories: Descriptions and Applications

Visit this website for an in-depth look at the current theories related to online learning and examples of how each one can be applied in the classroom.

Innovations in Learning Design

Companies are using Passion Project time to spark creativity and drive innovation. This is outside of the traditional research and development efforts. The 20% passion project time allows for exploration of interest-based activities and this has been implemented in the classroom. To learn more, to understand the concept better, and for ideas on how to go about this, review this document and watch the following video.

Implementing 20% Passion Projects in Your Class

 Makerspace Design

Makerspace Learning Design can seem like a daunting task. Terms such as “STEM” and “3D Printers” just make it feel so out of reach. It wasn’t until I read John Spencer’s interview with Jennifer Gonzalez that the notion was simplified for me. He described it as the space where creativity and idea generation meet real-world problem solving. His assertion that the product can be physical or digital was also alleviating. Armed with that knowledge, it becomes easier for teachers to design and carry out Makerspace activities. I would encourage teachers to start small in using Makerspace learning. It would be good to start with an activity teachers are already doing and then put the Makerspace adaptation on it. I brainstormed a few examples of how this could be implemented in the classroom:

Math: Students create instructional videos on a topic they have just studied. The instructional video could also be accompanied with a handout with practice problem set and accompanying solution set created by students. 

Foreign Language: Students create a “Welcome to School'' video for new families. This video would have important information relevant to school life, expectations and procedures. Students would determine the content to include in the video, write the scripts, record and edit. 

Music: Students use Fruity Loops or Soundtrap software to use virtual instruments and sounds to create soundtracks for videos created by the school. These soundtracks would be added to a school-based audio library. 

I’d encourage teachers to incorporate makerspace learning activities into their classes in these simple ways without making them into something daunting. Starting small and building on will be key. The video below provides more details.

 Using Makerspace Lesson Design