Student,
Instructional Design and Technology- edX MicroMasters Program
University of Maryland University College (UMUC)
LDT100x MICROLEARNING PROJECT
TASK:
Identify a technology tool such as an app, software or other authoring tool to support you in work or as a designer and you want to learn. Examples might be software to create an infographic, or online Venn diagram tool for your Learning Theories Chart, or image editor to create graphics for your website. As you learn the tool, think about which learning theories you employ, which could be more than one, and why they are effective or not effective.
Tool Learnt: Screencast-o-matic Screencasting Software (Pro-version)
Tool URL: https://screencast-o-matic.com
Why I Liked this Tool: I liked the Pro-version of this tool because it has a plethora of features such as video editing capabilities, background music files, options to draw on the video screen during recording, etc. The tool creates screencast videos of a great quality, that can be saved in a variety of formats and can be uploaded easily to websites such as YouTube.
Product I Created Using the Tool:
LDT100x Microlearning Project
Short Reflection of the Learning Theories that Supported my Learning:
The main learning theories that I think played a role in me learning this tool are constructivism, behaviorism, cognitivism and andragogy.
Behaviorism:
I think behaviorism is the underlying principle behind any learning activity undertaken by any individual, as, in my opinion, the deep-rooted desire for approval, appreciation and rewards of some kind are what motivate people to learn anything in the first place. The same was the case for me. My intrinsic motivation to learn this tool was the expectation of appreciation, approval and (hopefully) future professional benefits. (And there is also the punishment of failing my course that wants me to learn this tool within this week, and post this discussion here... :) )
Constructivism:
I think constructivism played a major role in me learning this tool, as I myself explored the available resources, connected my existing knowledge to my new experiences, and have developed my own meaning and understanding of the tool. While learning the features of the "Pro" version of this tool, I also sought help from a number of MKOs through Youtube videos and tutorials, which also links to Social Constructivism.
Cognitivism:
Cognitivism also played a role in my learning experience as, through the tutorials that I watched, I gathered, organized and understood the information given, and hence learning took place.
Andragogy:
I think one of the main learning theories that played a role in my learning experience was Andragogy. This is because my learning experience was relevant and will definitely have an impact on my professional life, was problem-centered and involved me in its planning. Also, I think the main factors that led me towards learning this tool was that I was intrinsically motivated and was ready to learn about the tool.
Why I Think these Approaches were Effective:
I think my approaches towards learning this tool were effective because I am now able to use the tool to create good videos. As of now, I am able to use most of the features of the tool, and hope to learn more and more about it in the coming days.