T.O.C. by NCDPI & NCATE Standards
Vocabulary, Fluency, and Comprehension Lessons
Context: This WebQuest was created as partial fulfillment for FDN 5220, Computers in Education, under the guidance of Dr. Riedl. In this course, we studied a constructivist approach to learning with the use of the computer as a "mind tool." This course posits that real learning takes place when the students can construct products with the knowledge that they have learned. For example, a student who has truly internalized a unit on photosynthesis would be able to use metacognition in the creation of a concept map. My WebQuest was my culminating project that uses three such mindtools: an intentional search, a database, and a PowerPoint.
A. Instructional Expertise
The candidate demonstrates instructional expertise by applying the theoretical, philosophical, and research bases for educational practice in P-12 settings to improve student learning.
Rationale: This artifact demonstrates that I reflect upon and modify student learning. I had taught this comparative unit on women's rights previously, but realized that students were having difficulty finding information on their own. So I created this WebQuest, and I created links to valid articles on women's issues for each country. This artifact also shows how I "incorporate findings from educational literature into school and classroom strategies to improve student learning" because I read Modeling with Technology: Mindtools for Conceptual Change (3rd Edition) by David H. Jonassen and I incorporated this information into my teaching. This artifact also demonstrates that I use "technology to create learning environments that support students’ learning."
B. Knowledge of Learners
The candidate incorporates knowledge of the nature of the learner, learning processes, variations in learning abilities and learning styles, and strategies for evaluating learning into the planning, delivery, and evaluation of instruction.
Rationale: My knowledge of learners lead me to develop this WebQuest. Technology is vital to the success of today's student, and it is also a vehicle by which educators can gain the attention of and engage learners. This WebQuest allows for a variety of learning abilities and styles. By working in mixed ability groups, all learners have access to the lesson. The WebQuest is geared for kinesthetic, auditory, and visual learners. Also, as stated previously, this WebQuest shows that I reflect on and modify my instruction as necessary.
C. Research
The candidate uses research to examine and improve instructional effectiveness and student achievement.
Rationale: My reading and application of Modeling with Technology: Mindtools for Conceptual Change (3rd Edition) by David H. Jonassen shows that I "critically read and apply historical and contemporary educational literature, including theoretical, philosophical, and research materials."
D. Content Knowledge
The candidate demonstrates advanced depth and breadth of knowledge and skills in the academic discipline and in education.
Rationale: This artifact exemplifies my knowledge of the North Carolina Standard Course of Study for tenth grade, world literature. One of the components of the course of study for tenth grade is that students take a comparative look at world literature and world cultures and this WebQuest requires both.
E. Professional Development and
Leadership
The candidate engages in continued professional development and provides leadership at the classroom, school, and community levels, and within the profession.
Rationale: My WebQuest is available online for all teachers to access and utilize which shows that I participate in appropriate professional communities and that I provide leadership in the field of English Language Arts.