The Impact of Online Learning Resources and Personal Experience

 

If you are searching to find online learning resources to enhance your skills in Educational Technology, you may wonder what modalities of learning are out there. The world of technology continues to evolve rapidly with the latest updates and discoveries. Technological resources continue to submerge at higher levels of expectation. 

Online learning resources have emerged as a pivotal component of education, transforming traditional teaching methods, and enhancing student engagement. The rapid advancement of technology has made educational materials more accessible and diverse than ever before.

Let us examine the benefits of online learning resources, the distinct types available, and their implications for both educators and students, emphasizing that these resources play a crucial role in modern education.

One of the most significant advantages of online learning is their accessibility. A report by Allen and Seaman (2017) indicates that over 30% of higher education students in the United States are enrolled in at least one online course. This accessibility allows learners to engage with educational materials anytime and anywhere, accommodating various learning styles and schedules. For instance, students can revisit lectures or readings at their convenience, enabling them to absorb information more effectively.

Using online learning resources helps learners to build new knowledge and skills linked to individual learning goals and to improve job performance. There are different instructional methods that help people learn content from online learning resources. 

One of the best digital learning experiences was being able to create content for students that I teach using Quizziz. I learned to create fun and engaging activities that allowed my students to participate while learning. Quizziz is a game-based learning tool that teachers use to create lessons and quizzes. The learning experience is fun and meaningful. Students retain what they learn through repetition and continuously stay engaged. There is immediate feedback and quick assessments which allow teachers to find out information on student progress and levels of understanding.

I reflect on the first time I had to virtually teach during the COVID pandemic. I was astonished by the amount of information and resources that needed to be obtained in a noticeably short amount of time. I spent countless hours searching for resources online and watched videos to assist me on how to create and manipulate online learning tools. What an experience that was and continues to be. 

It was a revelation for me to enhance and further my professional career which brings me to this master’s program of Learning Design and Technology in Education. I want to gain new knowledge and understanding to keep learners engaged to meet their needs of diversity. This could also help me to work in other areas of education such as becoming a curriculum specialist or teaching students to use various technological tools to enhance their research papers and findings. 

Virtual reality was mind blowing knowing that one could engage in real life happenings and environments from their classroom. The emotions and realistic engagements allow for students to have the experience we did not know of before technological advancements. 

Being able to implement the Promethean Board in the classroom to aid in my teaching allowed for me to manipulate tools such as YouTube to share online reading, educational resources, videos, engage in physical activities such as exercising with Jeff Hartmann, and the list goes on.

Interactive learning plays a vital role in enhancing the use of Navajo Language and Culture by promoting active engagement, cultural relevance, and community collaboration. Educators can provide meaningful learning experiences that connect students to their heritage while fostering a deeper understanding of Navajo values and language. It is essential to recognize the importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and ensuring that future generations appreciate the richness of Navajo Language and Culture. Kaibeto Boarding School is significant and known for implementing cultural activities and teachings.

Moreover, online resources provide diverse learning materials that cater to different learning preferences. According to Bates (2019), the availability of videos, interactive simulations, and articles helps maintain student interest and motivation. This variety allows educators to create tailored learning experiences that address individual students’ needs. For example, visual learners may benefit from video tutorials, while kinesthetic learners can engage with interactive simulations that promote direct learning.

As a teacher, I must meet the mandates and expectations of interactive learning courses to stay in compliance with the Bureau of Indian Education. There are courses that range from CPR/First Aid to Professionalism in the workplace. Upon completion of the courses, I submit certificates which are kept in my file to validate that I completed the courses. This can be time consuming, yet it is crucial for me in my profession. 

Furthermore, online learning resources offer continuous professional development opportunities for educators. Webinars, online courses, and forums provide teachers with access to valuable resources that can enhance their instructional practices (Darling-Hammond et al., 2017). By participating in professional development, educators can stay informed about the latest teaching strategies and technologies, benefiting their students.

Collaboration is another critical benefit of online learning resources. Many online platforms facilitate teamwork among students, allowing them to work together on projects, share ideas, and provide feedback. Johnson et al. (2014) emphasizes that collaborative learning fosters essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Through the use of online discussion forums and group projects, students can engage in meaningful interactions that enhance their learning experience.

A wide variety of online learning resources are available for educators and students. Educational websites, such as Waterford and Starfall, offer free or low-cost courses across multiple subjects, providing structured learning paths and assessments (Koller et al., 2013). These platforms empower students to take control of their learning by allowing them to progress at their own pace.

Interactive learning tools, like Quizziz and Kahoot!, encourage engagement through quizzes and games, allowing for instant feedback on student performance (Draper & Brown, 2004). These tools not only make learning enjoyable but also help reinforce concepts and track student progress. By incorporating gamification into the learning process, educators can motivate students to participate actively in their education.

Video tutorials on platforms such as YouTube and TED-Ed contribute significantly to the wealth of online resources. These videos can clarify complex concepts and supplement traditional teaching methods (Hattie, 2009). For example, teachers can assign specific videos as homework, allowing students to explore topics in depth before class discussions. This flipped classroom approach encourages active participation and deeper understanding. This is also resourceful in taking courses at Arizona State University when gaining more information and for clarification and understanding.

Additionally, educators must provide guidance and support to help students navigate online resources effectively. Some learners may struggle with self-directed learning, necessitating additional support (Knowles, 1980). Providing clear instructions on how to access and utilize these resources can help alleviate confusion and empower students to take charge of their learning.

The amount of information that online learning experiences I obtained has helped me to gain new knowledge and understanding. It helps to facilitate and keep students engaged through productive and fun ways of learning. The array of online learning is endless and rewarding.

Online learning resources have significantly impacted education, providing accessibility, diverse materials, and opportunities for collaboration. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for educators to embrace these resources and adapt their teaching practices accordingly. By doing so, they can create engaging and effective learning environments that cater to the diverse needs of all students. The integration of online learning resources not only enhances the educational experience for students but also empowers educators to grow professionally, leading to improved learning outcomes.

Resources:

Allen, I. E., and Seaman, J. (2017). Digital Learning Compass: Distance Education Enrollment Report 2017. Babson Survey Research Group.

Bates, A. W. (2019). Teaching in a Digital Age: Guidelines for Designing Teaching and Learning for a Digital Age. Tony Bates Associates Ltd.

Darling-Hammond, L., Hyler, M. E., and Gardner, M. (2017). Effective Teacher Professional Development. Palo Alto: Learning Policy Institute.

Draper, S. W., and Brown, M. I. (2004). Increasing Interactivity in Lectures Using a Personal Response System. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 20(2), 81-87.

Hattie, J. (2009). Visible Learning: A Synthesis of Over 800 Meta-Analyses Relating to Achievement. Routledge.

Johnson, D. W., Johnson, R. T., and Smith, K. A. (2014). Cooperative Learning: Improving University Instruction by Basing Practice on Validated Theory. Journal on Excellence in College Teaching, 25(3), 85-118.

Koller, D., Ng, A., and Chu, M. (2013). Retention and Intention in Massive Open Online Courses: In-depth Analysis of the MOOCs. International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 14(3), 1-16.

Knowles, M. S. (1980). The Modern Practice of Adult Education: Andragogy vs. Pedagogy. Cambridge Adult Education.