Q2 - Key learning moment and design decisions

Week 6 – Description of a key learning moment during phase one of your artifact's production and an explanation of how at least two (2) design decisions.

As the popularity and use of technology has increased, it has altered the way in which a classroom works and how students participate in lessons and learn.

A key learning moment during phase one was when as a group we had to use our problem making skills as it became clear that when designing an interactive resource many obstacles could occur. However it wasn’t long until we realised that with all the resources out there, there was always an alternative that we could utilise in our design.

The first design decision we made to present our assignment was to become familiar with using Screenr as it seemed simple to use and it was a free resource. However we were having difficulties when it came time to publishing our recording so we had to change our approach and use a program called Screen-o-matic. Screen-o-matic was just as simple and free to use so we were happy to incorporate it in our resource. This is a program that can be easily incorporated into a lesson and the students would find it easy to use and would engage them in their learning.

The second design decision was to present our resource through moviemaker. This presents information in an engaging way and can incorporate many different design features such as still pictures, movies and audio throughout the presentation. By choosing these two design features, it created a positive learning environment as it provided an easy to follow and clear structure, which supports students learning and understanding.

To make sure the artifact was genuine and relevant to student learning we ensured that we included elements of the Quality Teaching Model. It is clear after watching the resource that there is a close connection to such elements as engagement, deep knowledge, deep understanding and significance. By including such elements of the Quality Teaching Model, students are exposed to quality and meaningful learning (Hinde McLeod & Reynolds, 2007).

In addition, by keeping the design rather simple and easy to follow the resource aims to keep the students focused on the information rather than distracting them with other unnecessary effects and text, which would add to the students understanding.