Running head: Final Reflection

Reflection on Learning

Thomas Stinson

University of West Georgia

April 13, 2016

Introduction

After completing a semester in which I learned a lot of information that pertains too and is all

about advanced multimedia, I have arrived at the conclusion that I would like to use advanced

multimedia to help my students with understanding Science subject matter. Initially, I viewed all

multimedia as a resource that could aid students with their learning. Now I feel that in some

cases it could actually drive and promote needed instruction. This class has prompted us as

students to look for value in advanced multimedia. For years I have used power points, Prezi,

and Google Slides and have felt that they were sufficient enough to serve as my constant or main

source of presenting multimedia to my students. The most important thing that I have learned is

that I can use multiple sources of multimedia in one application that will work together to

achieve my desired goals.

I have and I am visualizing ways to create online learning opportunities to increase content

knowledge for difficult seventh grade life science standards. This year is my first year teaching

this content but I have served as the Science Department Chairperson at my school for three

years. Being in a position to share in and lead a professional learning committee, I will have the

opportunity to encourage other teachers and administrators to try new things. Over the last few

years I have noticed that advanced multimedia in the classroom has been encouraged. I have also

found that learning how to design your own advanced multimedia is cutting edge. As I gain more

knowledge of instructional technology I will be able to assist fellow teachers from a leadership

role as a STEM coordinator or Assistant principal. My overall end goal is to promote the

understanding of science in all opportunities that are presented. There is a unique chance to

personalize learning for all students. I will use material that I have learned to push content

mastery.
Review of Learning

In order to meet the learning goals associated with understanding, evaluating, and designing

advance multimedia, I had to learn how to really pay attention to details concerning multimedia.

First, I had to evaluate my understanding of multimedia. In doing so I realized that I was far less

knowledgeable than I thought concerning multimedia. The readings associated with the modules

were very important to my understanding. I learned that my preconceptions were largely wrong

in that I focused on my knowledge of website site, and other media as if they incorporated the

most valid points to subject matter. After learning about the structure of these online resources, I

found many problematic issues with my thoughts and actual opinions of certain sites that I have

been using for years. I learned about the importance of these websites when applied to their

overall relevance. I really had to study, interpret, and make decisions on the usefulness of these

resources. I read all of the required material and now understand that there are so many unspoken

intangible items that must be addressed in order to justify the worth of online resources. What

was really important to me is that we accept websites and online resources as valuable tools

when they might not be. I had to adjust to the fact that because it mentions important content

does not necessarily make it a valid tool. Once again, I really value this new way of judging

resources that really require more thought. I think that I took the information to heart and will

represent my understanding at a level that encompasses what the creditable and genuine

opportunities are.

Implications

What I have learned will definitely drive me to research the accessibility of the online

resources and their impact on student learning. I have also thought about how I dropped the ball

on opportunities in my past to require students to provide personal input when it comes to certain
instances. I will share and speak to the important details that help teachers decide on what is

helpful and what is not. As a department leader I must find a way to give my members insight on

selecting valid sites and opportunities for their students to learn. I have started but will continue

to make sure that online resources will aid my students with their ability to learn. I will no longer

choose sites strictly because they are popular and considered cutting edge. I know now that

cutting edge could be a talking point but not valuable to my students or teachers looking to

provide good experiences.

Conclusion

The important thing that I have learned about advanced multimedia is that I do not have all

the answers. I do not even have a large portion of the answers that would incorporate online

learning in the way that I would like too. Teachers must understand that website opportunities are

not the end. We are constantly trying to make sure that we are providing the best opportunities

for our students. I have a viewpoint that ensures that I will personally work to provide my

students with the best instructional avenues to experience and find growth in, I have left the most

important feature to other people. Going forward I know that we will and every one after me will

take more time to evaluate and make decisions that will benefit my students. Simply put I am at

awe when it comes to observing, acting, and finally understanding how to project what is needed.

I will apply the learning that I have attained from this class. It will especially be help when I am

in the position of making decisions that will either lead my department, school, or district. I truly

have witnessed and will use this information to lead going forward.

References
Bray, M., Brown, A., & Green, T. (2004). Technology and the diverse learner: A guide to

classroom practice. Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin Press, Inc.

Cooper, A., Reimann, R., Cronin, D., & Noessel, C. (2014). About face: The essentials of

interaction design (4th ed.). Indianapolis, Indiana: John Wiley & Sons.

Davidson-Shivers, G. V., & Rasmussen, K.L. (2006). Web-based learning: Design,

implementation, and evaluation. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Merrill/Prentice Hall.

Mayer, R. (2008). Applying the science of learning: Evidence-based principles for the design of

multimedia instruction. American Psychologist, Vol 63(8), 760-769.