Before I created the Learning Theory Matrix, I had to dig a little deeper into each theory. It has been over a year since I took an educational psychology course, so I was a little rusty when explaining how each practice can be used through technology. After reading about each theory, I realized how much I already implement in the classroom on a daily basis. My instructional practices heavily consist of Behaviorism, Cognitivism, and Constructivism. As a special education teacher however, I struggled to think of ways I can apply Connectivism due to the nature of demonstrating higher order thinking and connecting across environments. I realized it does not have to be limited to writing, but I can assess their understanding through talk-to-text or through pictures. I am excited to take this course in the summer so I can start the school year with effective technology practices and programs and share with my fellow teachers.
http://www.sanfordbrown.edu/Student-Life/blog/March-2015/Four-Top-Learning-Theories-in-the-Age
Aubrey Grice 
Hi Aubrey, my degree will be in special education as well, and you make a good point about the possible ways Connectivism could be used in the classroom. I have been working for the past three years as a paraprofessional in a special education resource room and talk to text is not something I have used before, but it is a great idea and something that would be beneficial to some of our students. I’m also hoping through this class I will be able to better use technology in the classroom. I think it will help me advocate for what the students need when I’m teaching.
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Hey Aubrey! I really enjoyed reading your post because we seemed to have some similar insights on creating our matrix. Through my research, I realized that I am already applying these theories in my classroom without thinking about it. My new goal is to be more mindful of each theory so that I can find new ways to incorporate technology into my lessons. I really liked your example of using music to aid in transitions. You could easily have different songs/sounds that signal different events. Once your students know the routine, you will not have to tell them what to do because they will know by the song that is being played! I’m also excited about taking the course this summer because I will be ready to begin the school year with some great new and innovative ideas.
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Hi Aubrey,
My prior experience in education includes serving as a special education teacher at the local public school. Under my leadership, we effectively implemented methods of connectivism in the classroom by introducing new technologies and applications. For instance, we were able to purchase an Ipad and applications to assist a student with her physical disorders that hindered the learning process. I truly believe that new technologies will greatly advance instruction and learning for our special education teachers and students. If you have not then please request professional development that focuses on incorporating technology in the special educations setting, it is wonderful!
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