Final Reflection

EDLD 5318

By Ruben Ortegon
 INTRODUCTION

My online course focuses on using digital learning to provide a project based learning

opportunity for my students. Creating a project virtually can be just as fun as doing one face to

face. There are times when students will have to eventually build their final product, however,

my course was designed to implement and utilize instructional strategies that would build 21st

century skills for students.

Instructional Design Theories

My inspiration for my course was from inquiry based learning. From experience I have learned

that students learn more by doing and getting involved with projects. They need to be put in the

“driver's seat” and try to solve real world problems. Furthermore, inquiry based learning allows

for students to build communication skills, critical thinking skills, active listening and reasoning

skills, all that are important in the workforce. Many of today’s employers need employees that

come equipped with 21st century learning skills. Passing a test means nothing if you can get

along with others and work together to solve problems, create solutions, and think creatively.

UbD plan Implementation

By creating my desired results first, I can utilize how I would break apart my lessons. Knowing

the end results allows for strategic planning and preparing for misconceptions along the way. In

my course the students are working on solving a real-world issue using project based learning.
Students are presented with a problem and they must collaborate as a group to analyze, design,

and implement the design process to the final product. Once students have a concept they will

see what works and what needs to be addressed, therefore, the outcome will reveal mastery of

concepts. Backwards design is perhaps the most beneficial in deciding who is actually learning

and who still requires interventions. Every effective lesson should begin with the end in mind.

Importance of Online Learning

With today’s uncertainty, it is critical to familiarize yourself with online learning applications,

software, and tools to use for your classroom. At some point in the near future, I believe that all

schools will have a 1 to 1 ratio of computers for students to use. This means that educators need

to be prepared to give lessons both virtually and in person. This topic was brought up several

times last year and I would express to those individuals that did not want to provide virtual

instruction the benefits of it. For example, assigning homework, re-taking tests, missing

assignments, missing a lecture, all of these can be sent to a student via LMS. Online learning will

be here to stay and one must utilize the benefits of virtual instruction.

Enduring Understanding

This course has allowed me to self-reflect and use only what is necessary in my online

classroom. I used to add almost everything that I could think of in order to try to provide my

students with several different tools and resources to use. However, I have learned that this is not

the proper way to introduce or add information. One must make it clear and concise and straight
to the point. I plan on using the backwards design model when designing any course or teaching

any lesson because I find it is the most effective way to assess mastery. Online learning also

provides the teacher to be able to differentiate accordingly. On several occasions in the

classroom teachers can struggle with classroom management and how to approach students who

are ready to move on yet others are in need of interventions. Teachers can assign work according

to a student's learning level and adapt instruction as needed. Also, extending time on assignments

and releasing retakes exams can be easily accomplished by the Learning Managements Systems

you are using. I have learned and continue to learn new techniques and find that the pros virtual

learning can provide seem to be limitless.