Learning Objects and Animations

On their own learning objects and animations do not constitute learning, it is our role as a teacher and learning designer to embed them in a larger learning context. Learning objects, animations and simulations are a great tool used to engage and motivate learners. The tools cannot be used on their own, but they can extend and develop students understanding and knowledge. Often students can apply their knowledge to the tool to promote higher order thinking and reasoning skills.

The amount of learning objects are in no way limited, with many teachers accessing the Learning PLace to search and find suitable activities. Even as an adult I find myself engaged and interested when using learning objects, just the other day I completed my first knee surgery- virtually, using an internet site Edheads. Learning objects and animations can allow learners a virtual experience when the real thing is either too difficult to achieve or too expensive.

In my current prac class, I have seen learners be taught the basic content of a certain area- adding fractions with different denominators, within a regular classroom. Once students demonstrate that they have the basic understanding, they can then go online to a program called Mathletics, where students challenge others from around the world in the same content area that the teacher sets them to do. The learners that I have observed are all motivated to learn and use Mathletics to earn points online to alter their digital character. This is just one example of how interactive ICT learning can motivate and extend students learning.