Is there a connection between the data produced from your Cycles and the research reported in your Literature Review?
In the areas of engagement, motivation and student-centered classrooms, yes, there is a connection between my literature review research and my AR. My findings fell right in line with those that I found. Creating personalized learning environments, by using Web 2.0 tools, for each student in my classroom increased their motivation and engagement in their activities and assignments. In addition, by using various Web 2.0 tools, I put the students in charge of their own learning, thus creating a personalized learning environment that was student driven. In the area of using Web 2.0 tools to increase reading comprehension – there was not a wealth of literature out there. I found a few case studies and peer reviewed articles, but nothing compelling. Furthermore, the research I did find was geared more to younger elementary students and older high school students – nothing touched on middle school students.’
How did your AR project turn out for you? Describe as a practitioner, how did this project improve your practice.
Overall, my AR project was a success. Statistically, I showed an overall improvement in non-ficiton reading comprehension skills. I also feel that I was able to help each student individually with their weaknesses. Cycle 2, I believe, had a larger impact on their learning than Cycle 1. I changed the main project to gaming, which really peaked their interest. I had students tell me, “I loved this part of my research much better than the other stuff we did!” And this showed in their enthusiasm for class and their complete engagement during the 45-minute class. The students thought I was crazy to let them play games for my research, but when they saw their non-fiction comprehension reading scores go up – they were convinced. This project showed me that I don’t have to stick with conventional – tried and true- research to make a difference. I need to step out of my confort zone, and force my school to do the same, if we want middle school students to learn. I struggled at first how to make the games work in glass and make them a valid part of the reassert project, but once this clicked – I never doubted for a minute that gaming to learn was the way to go.
Is a personal learning environment or an LMO something that could be part of your AR project in the future? Why or why not.
Most definitely! I used Edmodo all year long. I began using it before implementing my AR. The students are do adept to using networking platforms, it is second nature to them. However, they all thought it was cool to use in school. I will also work on creating stronger personal learning environments for next year’s students. This was my first year in my position as computer technology teacher that I was struggling with what and how to teach the students. This AR research has given me a solid foundation for years to come.
Stacey Kramer 