INF533: Assessment 4: Part A: Context.

Word Count: 750

The digital story-telling project is designed to engage students’ interest and display an example of how students can interpret their own creations. Originally the task was for students to redesign a sustainability text and critique the text on the important topic of Sustainability, however, after discussions of originality and copyright were presented, the texts then became an inspiration, rather than a digital copy. The audience for this story is the students of 5/6Gold to present their assessment challenge and create a unique exploration of Bowen Public School.

The story is presented as an adventure through Bowen Public School and students are presented with areas of sustainability and the impact the school community has on the environment. The subject areas of Science, through the exploration of human impact on the environment (NESA, 2015), and English remain at the forefront and the importance of sustainability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures (ATSIHC) remain prevalent and develop ICT capabilities as a cross-curricula priorities (ACARA, 2016). The purpose of the story is to formulate questions and ideas about ATSIHC and Sustainability present in Bowen Public School and encourage students to focus on the area that is most relevant to their individual lives (University of Houston, 2013). Students will then be grouped based on their interests and continue the project by creating their own digital story on their chosen topic within Bowen Public School and/or their local community.

Bowen Public School has a substantial amount of opportunities for students to participate in ATSIHC through NAIDOC, BroSpeak and SisterSpeak as well as in the classroom. The project allows students to focus on the areas that they need to address in their learning and feel comfortable presenting. Bowen Public School has a 50% Indigenous population. By providing the option students who are non-Indigenous can learn more about the Indigenous culture and Indigenous learners can either highlight their culture or learn about Sustainability. Sustainability is not currently a large priority for the school and this project is designed to promote an interest and understanding of Sustainability and how it could be further developed within Bowen Public School.

Multimodal texts as an area of study has been planned for Term 4 and the project is creating a space for students to explore how texts work in a digital format, how to shape their own digital stories and decide on their audience (NESA,2015), whether that be to the class, teachers or school community as a whole as well as exploring relevant and real life topics (Tackvic, 2012). Students are provided with guidance to support the various learning needs through different texts as examples of ATSIHC and Sustainability and the deconstruction of the story used as an example. Students are given guidance and support in constructing the storyboards and plans, as well as how to incorporate either video footage or photographs shot on iPads, iPhones or the professional cameras provided by the school. Each student has a Chromebook with Windows Movie Maker and explicit step by step lessons establish how the ‘hook’ story was designed enables students to edit their own digital stories.

The value of a digital storytelling product is through reading, sharing, creating and analyzing (Serafini & Young, 2013). The project requires students to read and understand texts on a deeper level to ensure that they are presenting the information correctly and accurately. They develop their reading and writing skills through the project and synthesise their ideas to ensure it fits within the 3-5 minute timeframe. Sharing is presented through the development and creation of their video to share on an online community and converse with the larger school community about topics that they are interested and engaging with. The creation of their video is a source of quality understand and assessment and provide students with a tangible product to admire and continue to reflect on. The creating process requires high-order thinking skills to be activated and students will need to have the confidence in their final product. Finally students need to critically analyse their final works and the other members of the class to reflect on their learning and experiences to help solidify learning and to inform further teaching activities.

This digital storytelling product requires students to be able to work in a group environment alongside having access to the recording devices and Chromebooks. Students need to receive a USB to ensure that students consistently have access to their product. Consideration to the length of the video, the language used and the supports students need.

 

References

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (2016). Cross-Curriculum Priorities. Retrieved from https://www.acara.edu.au/curriculum/cross-curriculum-priorities

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). English K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). Science K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

Serafini, F., & Youngs, S. (2013) Reading Workshop 2.0. Reading Teacher. 66(5), 401-404.  https://org.ezproxy.csu.edu.au/10.1002/TRTR.01141.

Tackvic, C. (2012). Digital storytelling: Using technology to spark creativityThe Educational Forum, 76(4), 426.

University of Houston (2013). Educational uses of digital storytelling: What is digital storytelling? Retrieved from http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/page.cfm?id=27&cid=27

INF533 – Part B – Critical Reflection

Word Count: 749

The digital landscape is constantly shifting, as is the literature present in this environment. The shifting nature provides the opportunity to provoke immersive and valuable learning experiences with students through quality literature (Kearney, 2011). Digital texts are inclusive of e-books, interactive books and transmedia (Lamb, 2011) and each format provides its own unique experiences within the classroom. Alignment with a sturdy criteria of quality literature is comparable to judging quality literature in print format, but offers a new perspective and levels unattainable in print (Walsh, 2013). Quality digital texts need to offer the classroom an experience that is easy to navigate, comprehend and enhance or support learning in a unique and engaging manner (Serafini, 2013).

Digital resources that are interactive provide crucial links to cross-curricular teaching and engage students in learning that expands beyond the classroom walls (Newsum, 2016). A strong development of meaning, understanding and sense of audience and connection is a fundamental component of quality digital texts (Walsh, 2013). Newsum (2016) highlights the purpose of digital texts is through catering to the diversity within the classroom, inclusive of learning styles, level of ability and experience. Newsum emphasises the importance of digital texts facilitating collaborative learning, interactive activities and non-linear learning sequences. Utilising digital texts effectively, students are engaged on multiple levels and provided with a contextualised learning experience (Farkas, 2013).

Teacher Librarians (TL) need to value and explore a wide range of interactive and digital literature and enhance their knowledge and understanding of the platforms available to students in the classroom. Wheeler & Grever (2015) discuss that fear over damage, inadequacy and disruption are reasons to hesitancy that teachers may have when implementing digital formats within the classroom. The exploration and analysis of a wide range of mediums as well as understanding digital formats can assist TLs incorporating the different digital technologies and literature within the classroom.

My personal preference has always been for traditional print format, however, my understanding of digital literature was considered e-books only. Through the exploration of different kinds of digital literature, I have developed a stronger appreciation for digital literature and value the multi-platform, non-linear learning sequences available. My appreciation for the intuitive, expansive and accessible digital literature has fostered a desire to increase the use of digital literature within my classroom.

Each digital literature that has been reviewed provides a foundational point for students to expand and foster their knowledge on. The digital literature primes itself to become a ‘hook’ (Nagro, Fraser & Hooks, 2018) and creates opportunities for students to develop their literacy and scientific research skills. The Conservation in the Magical Land of Oz digibook by ABC Education offers a unique and accessible introduction to digital literature and provides students with the initial information for a research task based around conservation and sustainability (ACARA, 2015). The digibook is accessible in my Stage 2 classroom as we have Chromebooks available for every student with internet access.

The focus task for students would be to design a Google Site based around a selection of animals from the digibook and to use the information gathered from the audio and visual components of the text and research into the conservation status’ and environmental issues that are impacting on the animals. Students combine their literacy skills and research skills to form an understanding and appreciation through relating their learning to a wider world issue.

An explicit lesson on research skills as well as creating meaning from various text types would provide students with beneficial abilities in navigating many forms of digital literature. An additional resource I would include is a transcript of the text for students with hearing difficulties or struggle with comprehending the associated audio. Students can be extended through the additional resources located at the end of the digibook and provide new knowledge on different animals.

The information era has necessitated students to proficient in skills and abilities that allow them access to the full potential of being 21st century citizens (McAlister, 2009). Traditional formats are not erased but rather expanded, enhanced and transformed into interactive mediums that incite engagement and enthusiasm towards learning and literature (Newsum, 2016). The connections to the wider world are becoming more prominent and relevant within the classroom and digital literature allows students to access these connections in varied experiences and contexts (Manresa & Real, 2015). Teachers are able to incorporate and promote these digital skills, technologies and literature within the classroom to provide holistic learning experiences for students and engage their higher thinking and cognitive skills

Part B References:

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (2016). Cross-Curriculum Priorities. Retrieved from https://www.acara.edu.au/curriculum/cross-curriculum-priorities

Farkas, M. (2013). Mobile Learning: The Teacher in Your Pocket. In Peters, T. A., & Bell, L. A. (Eds.). Handheld library: Mobile technology and the librarian, (pp. 31-43). ABC-CLIO, LLC.

Kearney, M. (2011). A learning design for student-generated digital storytelling. Learning, Media and Technology36(2), 169-188, doi: 10.1080/17439884.2011.553623

Lamb, A. (2011). Reading redefined for a transmedia universe. Learning and leading with technology, 39(3), 12-17. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csu.edu.au/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/ login.aspx?direct=true&db=ehh&AN=67371172&site=ehost-live

Manresa, M., & Real, N. (2015). Digital Literature for Children (pp. 150-200).

McAlister, A. (2009). Teaching the millennial generation. American Music Teacher, 58(7), 13–15. Radovan, M., & Perdih, M. (2016). Developing Guidelines for Evaluating the Adaptation of Accessible Web-Based Learning Materials. The International Review of Research In Open And Distributed Learning, 17(4). doi: 10.19173/irrodl.v17i4.2463

Nagro, S., Fraser, D., & Hooks, S. (2018). Lesson Planning With Engagement in Mind: Proactive Classroom Management Strategies for Curriculum Instruction. Intervention in School And Clinic, 54(3), 131-140. doi: 10.1177/1053451218767905

Newsum, J. (2016). School Collection Development and Resource Management in Digitally Rich Environments: An Initial Literature Review. School Libraries Worldwide, 22(1).

Serafini, F. (2013). Reading Workshop 2.0. Reading Teacher, 66(5), 401-404. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csu.edu.au/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pbh&AN=92711892&site=ehost-live

Walsh, M. (2013). Literature in a digital environment (Ch. 13). In L. McDonald (Ed.), A literature companion for teachers. Marrickville, NSW: Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA).

Wheeler, S., & Gerver, R. (2015). Learning with ‘e’s. Crown House Publishing.

INF533 – Interactive Literature Review – Animal Sounds, Photos and Info

Word Count: 719

Category: Interactive Application
Title:
 Animal Sounds, Photos and Info
Developer: YED28; 2015.
Age Appropriateness: 4+
Cost: Free. 2 additional packs of 30 animals each available from parent protected in-app purchasing for $1.49 each.
Location: Available on any Apple device
Simultaneous Device Usage:
Unlimited

Interactive literature provide students with a combination of traditional information in conjunction with additional content that supports and develops the content in a meaningful and engaging way (Kearney, 2011). The difference from an e-book, an enhanced book and an interactive book is the rich learning experience through a digital platform. The focus on the interactive literature is to draw connections and engage students in a unique way, which can be done through the additional content present. The current climate of students are developing a plethora of digital skills and exposed to a range of mediums, learning experiences and tasks. An interactive application provides students an opportunity to showcase their experiences and support all the needs of learners based from the apps function and adaptability (Serafini, 2013).

Content, Interaction and Presentation:

The Animal Sounds, Photos and Info app provides students with high-quality pictures, sound recordings and information sheets about 50 animals available. Additional content includes a ‘match the sound’, inclusive of every animal and jigsaw puzzles of varying difficulty on each animal. For less than three dollars, teachers can gain access to an additional 60 animals.

The navigation of each animal is simple and the presentation of information is clear and structured (Bircher, 2012). Students can explore the animals from a main drop-down list or scroll left or right on the main screen. Students’ interaction with the app would be enhanced through the additional content of the puzzle and ‘match the sound’. The challenging and deep engagement with the app provides opportunities to support the learning needs of the students and meet their interests in a particular animal or focus (Kearney, 2011). The layout of the app is simple, providing limited distractions for the students (Radovan & Perdih, 2016).

Adaptability:

The adaptability of this app does not orientate around Walsh’s (2013) criteria for digital literature, rather focuses on providing engagement and factual information that is easily transferrable and expanded on depending on the interests of the students and their needs (Kearney, 2011). Biancaros & Griffiths (2012) highlight the importance of interactive tools assisting the growth of vocabulary and specific content knowledge which this app supports in students and provides the foundational steps to become a skilled reader. The various levels of activities within the app provide students with unique opportunities to develop deeper engagement with the animal of their choice, however, the information provided is simple and limited which requires the addition of other applications or information to expand on literacy tasks further.

Accessibility:

Animal Sounds, Photos and Info is an extremely accessible app being free and available on all Apple devices, provided iPads were available in the classroom. Students would benefit most from having a device each, but learning activities are still possible with the sharing of an iPad and app. The information is suitable to a Stage 2 class, however, with the use of scientific terms, a read-to-me option would assist students in making the text-to-sound connections. The value of the app also comes through students being able to navigate the app with little to no assistance from the teacher and provided with support or challenges depending on their level (Bircher, 2012).

Classroom implementation:

The Animal Sounds, Photos and Info app is a great introductory app that would instigate engagement with the various animals within the app. Teachers would use the app to demonstrate the various forms, purposes and audiences for informative text-types present within the English syllabus (NESA, 2015). There can also be connections made to explore ‘living things’ components of the Science syllabus (NESA, 2015) alongside their information and develop enthusiasm towards the topic before expanding on student learning.

Teachers would use this as a hook (Nagro, Fraser & Hooks, 2018) to introduce the concepts in focus, whether English or Science and provide opportunities to perform a diagnostic assessment of what students know and are interested in. Furthermore, the app can be used to assist students who struggle with research tasks by having the information present in a simple, yet engaging experience, making reluctant readers capable of completing their information tasks or scientific investigations.

References:

Biancarosa, G., & Griffiths, G. G. (2012). Technology tools to support reading in the digital age. The Future of Children, 22(2), 139-160. doi: 10.1353/foc.2012.0014

Bircher, K. (2012). What makes a good picture book app? The Horn Book Magazine, 3(1), 72-78.Kearney, M. (2011). A learning design for student-generated digital storytelling. Learning, Media and Technology36(2), 169-188, doi: 10.1080/17439884.2011.553623

Nagro, S., Fraser, D., & Hooks, S. (2018). Lesson Planning With Engagement in Mind: Proactive Classroom Management Strategies for Curriculum Instruction. Intervention in School And Clinic, 54(3), 131-140. doi: 10.1177/1053451218767905

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). English K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). Science K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

Radovan, M., & Perdih, M. (2016). Developing Guidelines for Evaluating the Adaptation of Accessible Web-Based Learning Materials. The International Review Of Research In Open And Distributed Learning, 17(4). doi: 10.19173/irrodl.v17i4.2463

Serafini, F. (2013). Reading Workshop 2.0. Reading Teacher, 66(5), 401-404. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csu.edu.au/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=pbh&AN=92711892&site=ehost-live

Walsh, M. (2013). Literature in a digital environment (Ch. 13). In L. McDonald (Ed.), A literature companion for teachers. Marrickville, NSW: Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA).

 

 

INF533 – Enhanced Book Review – Conservation in the Magical Land of Oz by ABC Education

Word Count: 769

Category: Enhanced Book
Title:
 Conservation in the Magical Land of Oz
Author: ABC Education
Publisher: Australian Broadcasting Corporation and Education Services Australia Ltd 2012
Age Appropriateness: Stage 2 (8+)
Cost: Free
Location: ABC Education Website: http://education.abc.net.au/home#!/digibook/3047342/conservation-in-the-magical-land-of-oz
Simultaneous Device Usage:
Unlimited

Enhanced books differ from e-books through the additional formats of audio and visual movement and interactions. An enhanced book needs to have some form of interactivity, audio or video content and can provide links to additional content. The Conservation in the Magical Land of Oz presents these features and includes worksheets. The trend of incorporating digital formats are not meant to be a replacement of print text, which is what most basic e-books act as, but rather an expansion of traditional formats that complement information access and increase the information access available (Newsum, 2016). These complements are designed to assist students in developing the literacy skills to locate information faster and increase their learning and connections to the wider world (Manresa & Real, 2015).

Increasing students’ access and incorporating visual and audio components increases motivation and enthusiasm to the task. Expanding on the motivation and enthusiasm, teachers can assist students in developing their own understandings and strategies in a time-effective manner, further reducing frustration to digital tasks that may be present (Ross, Pechenkina, Aeschliman & Chase (2017).

Content, Interaction and Presentation:

The Conservation in the Magical Land of Oz is an informative ‘Digibook’ produced by ABC Education. The enhanced book utilises multimodal format to present information regarding animals and their conservation status within Australia. Each chapter is divided into an animal of focus, such as numbat, cuttlefish and koala, and provides written text on the side, to prompt student thinking whilst they engage with the visual and audio aspects of the text. The information is relevant to the wider world and creates opportunities for students to develop connections to their own life, a crucial aspect to learning (Manresa & Real, 2015). The quality of each video is high and promotes student engagement with the content.

Students have the opportunity to explore chapters that are intrinsically interesting to them, or explore the texts in a chronical order to decide their topic focus. The digibook is presented in a way that enables students to have their focus on the information, rather than any distractions or hyperlinks (Radovan & Perdih, 2016). Through the use of a range of animals, students are motivated to interact with the sections of text that interest and engage them.

Adaptability:

The adaptability features according to Walsh (2013) are lacking in this digibook, due to the nature of audio and visual format. Students aren’t able to annotate, bookmark or search within text for keywords, however, with the correct support from teachers could perform these features outside of the digibook. The written text is similar to the audio within the film but does not provide all the information that is presented. The language level is appropriate for Stage 2 and older, as presented on the digibook. One way of assisting students would be including a transcript for those students with hearing difficulties or to find challenging words. The website is user-friendly and simple which assists students in developing the intrinsic motivation to learn and explore more literature available.

Accessibility:

The digibook is easily accessible through any digital device and are free to access. Access would be restricted if the internet was down or one of the components did not work. Students would not gain the same benefits having access to only the visual or audio section of the text. Students with visual difficulties are able to access the literature through audio-format, however, students with a hearing impairment would be hindered due to no transcript.

Classroom implementation:

The enhanced features of this digibook provides students with the capabilities to create their own scientific research task using this digibook as the core to developing the crucial understanding of conservation. Students link both cross-curricula priorities of sustainability (ACARA, 2016) into both the Science and Geography syllabi (NESA, 2015), Students evaluate the images and information received audibly to comprehend the challenges currently being faced by the animals throughout the videos. Analysis on the visual elements as well as how a film is still considered an informative text establishes connections to the multimodal aspects of the English syllabus (NESA, 2015) and develops a deeper understanding of the skills needed to create meaning from these text types (ACARA, 2016). Teachers are also able to utilise the worksheets attached in the last chapter, linking to pages of extra information for students to use.

 

References:

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (2016). Literacy. Retrieved from https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/f-10-curriculum/general-capabilities/literacy/

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (2016). Cross-Curriculum Priorities. Retrieved from https://www.acara.edu.au/curriculum/cross-curriculum-priorities

Manresa, M., & Real, N. (2015). Digital Literature for Children (pp. 150-200).

Newsum, J. (2016). School Collection Development and Resource Management in Digitally Rich Environments: An Initial Literature Review. School Libraries Worldwide, 22(1).

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). English K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). Geography K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). Science K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

Radovan, M., & Perdih, M. (2016). Developing Guidelines for Evaluating the Adaptation of Accessible Web-Based Learning Materials. The International Review Of Research In Open And Distributed Learning, 17(4). doi: 10.19173/irrodl.v17i4.2463

Ross, B., Pechenkina, E., Aeschliman, C., & Chase, A. (2017). Print versus digital texts: understanding the experimental research and challenging the dichotomies. Research in Learning Technology, 25(0). Doi: 10.25304/rlt.v25.1976

Walsh, M. (2013). Literature in a digital environment (Ch. 13). In L. McDonald (Ed.), A literature companion for teachers. Marrickville, NSW: Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA).

INF533 E-book Review – All About Big Cats by Jordyn Madison

Word Count: 746

Category: E-Book
Title: All About Big Cats
Author: Jordyn Madison
Publisher: 2014 MPB Publishing
Age Appropriate: Stage 2 (8+)
Cost: $4.19
Location: Amazon Kindle app on smartphone, tablet or Kindle device.
Simultaneous Device Usage:
Unlimited

The motion of today’s society into the information era requires a new set of skills and abilities for students to master (McAlister, 2009). The skills required to be a 21st century citizen focus on the digital landscape and students need to be familiar with how to operate and derive meaning from these online environments. Portable technology has enabled digital literature to become more prevalent and accessible in the classroom and it is essential for teachers to educate students on the interpretation of various digital literature and immerging forms of communication (Manresa & Real, 2015) including e-books.

An e-book is digitalized text from print form and is read online using a technological device (Lamb, 2011). The shift to non-traditional formats for literature are prevalent in school programs such as BYODs and the increase in platforms available to implement within the classroom. Manresa & Real (2015) highlights the importance of facilitating learning in new reading conventions, experiences and promoting exposure to new formats that are accessible through the use of a Kindle or e-reader device.

Content, Interaction and Presentation:

All About Big Cats by Jordyn Madison is an American e-book available through the Kindle app. The 47 page book is organised into chapters based on the animal focus and students are able to select the area they wish to move to with ease using the table of contents. The information is comprehensible for students in Stage 2 and provides basic information about each animal in focus. The dictionary function works within the e-book to assist students that are unfamiliar with any concepts or topic addressed. Further links are provided to different texts and can be provided to the students if suited to the learning objectives.

Interest is gathered and maintained through the use of images throughout the text, however, since there is only interaction with text and no other media, students could become disengaged. The presentation follows the traditional format of print media. An interesting addition occurring in the Kindle app is the text is underlined if other Kindle users have highlighted that text as important, which can assist students in understanding the crucial information, however, according to Radovan & Perdih (2016) may interrupt students’ readability of the overall text.

Adaptability:

Walsh (2013) provided features of adaptability to include being able to search for keywords and phrases, bookmarking capabilities, annotation, changes to font size, background colour and the incorporation of dyslexic-assistive fonts. The Kindle app provides each of these features that occur in a user-friendly manner, making it engaging for students to use the various components. Students may choose a particular ‘big cat’ and bookmark the pages on their cat and proceed to write notes within the app itself.

Improvements in converting text-to-voice could promote students’ oral vocabulary as there are examples of geographical locations that students would not be familiar with. Another improvement would be the conversion of the imperial measurements into the metric system.

Accessibility:

The requirement for this to be accessible for each students would be working in small groups and sharing an iPad per group or each student having access to a device that has the Kindle app. The Kindle app is not available for Chromebooks or Microsoft operating systems which can cause barriers to access for some schools and students (Leu, McVerry, O’Byrne, Kiili, Zawilinski, Everett-Cacopardo, Kennedy & Forzani, 2011). This e-book would be most effective in the classroom if every member had access to a Kindle-friendly device and the initial cost could be budgeted for. The e-book can still be sourced in other methods, however, the most effective would be through the app as it can be accessed across the board of students.

Classroom implementation:

Students use this e-book to develop an understanding of the digital formats and how to develop their literacy and comprehension skills, such as scanning, in a digital layout (ACARA, 2016). Working within small groups, if limited on devices (Bormann & Lowe, 2010), students are able to record meaning and develop an ability to identify literal information in texts, form meaning and develop an understanding of the purpose of information text types (NESA, 2015). Using this e-book as a foundation or introduction lesson in the class to provide students with guided instruction and developing the initial research and literacy skills would maximise the text’s positive features.

References:

Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. (2016). Literacy. Retrieved from https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/f-10-curriculum/general-capabilities/literacy/

NSW Education Standards Authority. (2015). English K-10 Syllabus: NSW Syllabus for the Australia Curriculum. Teaching & Educational Standards, Sydney NSW.

Lamb, A. (2011). Reading redefined for a transmedia universe. Learning and leading with technology, 39(3), 12-17. Retrieved from http://ezproxy.csu.edu.au/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/ login.aspx?direct=true&db=ehh&AN=67371172&site=ehost-live

Leu, D. J., McVerry, J. G., O’Byrne, W. I., Kiili, C., Zawilinski, L., Everett-Cacopardo, H., et al. (2011). The new literacies of online reading comprehension: Expanding the literacy and learning curriculum. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 55(1), (pp. 5–14). doi: 10.1598/JAAL.55.1.1

Manresa, M., & Real, N. (2015). Digital Literature for Children (pp. 105-120).

McAlister, A. (2009). Teaching the millennial generation. American Music Teacher, 58(7), 13–15. Radovan, M., & Perdih, M. (2016). Developing Guidelines for Evaluating the Adaptation of Accessible Web-Based Learning Materials. The International Review of Research In Open And Distributed Learning, 17(4). doi: 10.19173/irrodl.v17i4.2463

Walsh, M. (2013). Literature in a digital environment (Ch. 13). In L. McDonald (Ed.), A literature companion for teachers. Marrickville, NSW: Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA).

INF533 Assignment Post 1

Is the printed book dead?

As an avid physical reader the thought of the demise of printed books is almost incomprehensible, however, digital literature environments have continued to expand as technological advances have been made. The increase of electronic modes of communication is a step as revolutionary as the mobile printing press (Rettberg, 2012), however, the chances of printed books ‘dying out’ are over-exaggerated by media sources (Darnton, 2009). The impact of this shift is the notion that humanity have entered into the ‘information age’ and as the library is an information service (Darnton, 2009), it is a necessity that in my profession of Teacher Librarian, the maintenance and up-kept of changes and developments is crucial to our knowledge and skills.

The influx of digital literature and technology and tools are utilised due to what they can add to literature, rather than to replace physical literature. Sadokierski (2013) discusses that the value of the electronic book (eBooks) is through what eBooks can offer that print books cannot. The one of the most appealing aspects of eBooks is the efficiency, immediacy and variety available. Librarians can incorporate digital literature to provide reluctant readers with a novel experience, create new texts that dynamically interacts with the readers and offer support within the classroom. Felvegi & Matthew (2012) address the potential that electronic texts can reduce costs in both storage and production, provide opportunities for diverse learning locations and shift teaching pedagogy to assist students in developing the 21st century skills necessary.

As a new graduate, my experience in the classroom and library environment are quite limited and my current knowledge and practices in play are reversed to using Wushka and a variety of digital uses through Google Suite. Walsh (2013) articulates the differing components of digital environments and the digital forms present currently. The digital environments are engaging readers in a unique way that teachers need to be present of and incorporate these skills into their teaching and learning.

References

Darnton, R. (2009). The information landscape, Chapter 2 in The case for books by Robert Darnton,  New York: Pubic Affairs pp. 21-41 http://csuau.eblib.com/patron/FullRecord.aspx?p=496489  

Flevegi, E. & Matthew, K.I. (2012). eBooks and literacy in K-12 schools, Computers in the schools, 29(1-2), 40-52. DOI: 10.1080/07380569.2012.651421

Rettberg, J.W. (2012). Electronic literature seen from a distance: the beginnings of a field. Retrieved from http://www.dichtung-digital.org/2012/41/walker-rettberg.htm

Sadokierski, Z. (2013, November 12). What is a book in the digital age? [Web log post]. Retrived from http://theconversation.com/what-is-a-book-in-the-digital-age-19071

Walsh, M. (2013). Literature in a digital environment (Ch. 13). In L. McDonald (Ed.), A literature companion for teachers. Marrickville, NSW: Primary English Teaching Association Australia (PETAA)

401 Reflective Practice

Information Literacy is a larger concept than I realised. Originally, my understanding of the concept was the ‘traditional’ literate term of being able to read, write, listen, speak, view and understand a language and its meaning. This understanding stemmed from the English Syllabus and how it was structured to view these components as the most important aspects of language. Information was known as the pieces of knowledge we collect to shape understanding and meaning within our world (Bernard, 2019, March 19). My understanding of information has shifted to a more relevant, concise and useful term and IL is the ability to create meaningful experiences and understanding through a range of skills interacting with information (Wallace & Husid, 2017). It is through the application of IL models that I now have the understanding I do today.

The strongest connection I had to an IL framework throughout this subject was Six Frames for Information Literacy Education (Bruce, Edwards & Lupton, 2015). Information Literacy is a fluid concept and dependent on the context and the purpose of the task required. The Six Frames understanding about the different applications of IL solidified. Each task will provide students with new areas of information to explore and as a TL, we must adopt the various roles to ensure students are exploring and developing a deep understanding of all aspects of IL, not just the ‘frame’ we identify with most. The right information resources and strategies morph depending on the subject content and IL is equipping students will the skills to navigate the changing environment and understand the organisation of information (Talja & Lloyd, 2010).

Challenges will arise through resistance to change and the continually fluid nature of information. Students and teachers need to constantly adapt and update the skills to work with IL. It is a set of skills and a way of learning. It is the identification and understanding of information to pass on ideas, but it is also a way of learning how to transfer information across a wide variety of settings, an extension of the current knowledge to delve deeper into a concept.

Due to my limited knowledge of IL, the introduction of models was a learning curb. IL models incorporate the steps and IL skills needed to complete an inquiry task. The models allow for exploration of a topic and the movement between not knowing to understanding. Models incorporate inquiry learning to shape the movement of learning and includes reflection to apply learning into a range of contexts. Exploring the different models available, knowing my students’ need, the GID model promoted engagement, interaction and in-depth exploration, rather than a step by step exploration.

The TL role’s has expanded beyond my original understanding as a store-keeper of books and an instigator for a lifelong love of literacy (Bernard, 2019, March 13). The TL’s role focuses on the transferal of knowledge in all forms and becoming information specialists, managers and leaders (ASLA, 2019). Inquiry learning allows TL’s to become a facilitator, skill builder and supplier whilst developing classroom teachers’ understanding and own skills to further assist the students.

TL’s have become a central force in developing community projects and through the application of IL models, students are able to combine their own interests with making a difference in the larger community context and generating real-world applications to transfer their skills between.

Learning is a continual and lifelong challenge. It allows for skills to be honed and understanding to bloom. Reflection allows for greater learning to take place where it may have been lacking. I realise that my interaction with information, especially in the form of blog posts is very lacking and has created a greater challenge for me, however, I am able to note and grow in this digital landscape and ensure that next time I will have a higher focus, not just engaging with the material but digging in deep and apply my IL into a range of contexts and environments to receive a boost my learning and demonstrate my own knowledge, even if that is just to myself.

References:

Australian School Library Association (2019). Retrieved from https://asla.org.au/what-is-a-teacher-librarian

Bernard, P. (2019, March 13). My Understanding of the Role of TLs [Thinkspace Blog]. Retrieved from Charles Sturt University https://thinkspace.csu.edu.au/paigespages/2019/03/13/13-3-19-my-understanding-of-the-role-of-tls/

Bernard, P. (2019, March 19). Thinking About Information [Online Discussion Comment]. Retrieved from Charles Sturt University https://interact2.csu.edu.au/webapps/discussionboard/do/message?action=list_messages&course_id=_42380_1&conf_id=_78883_1&forum_id=_147403_1&message_id=_2191782_1&nav=discussion_board_entry

Bruce, C., Edwards, S., & Lupton, M. (2006). Six frames for information literacy education: A conceptual framework for interpreting the relationships between theory and practice. ITALICS, 5(1).

Talja, S. & Lloyd, A. (2010). Integrating theories of learning, literacies and information practices. In Talja, S. & Lloyd, A. (2010). Practising information literacy: Bringing theories of learning, practice and information literacy together. WaggaWagga, NSW: Centre for Information Studies.

Wallace, V. & Husid, W. (2017). Collaborating for Inquiry-Based Learning: School Librarians and Teachers Partner For Student Achievement. 2nd ed. Santa Barbara, Ca: Libraries Unlimited.

21.3.19 – Week 3 503 Post!

2.1 Decision-making model – it’s for consideration rather than a yes or no answer. Does it fit with:

2.2 Mosle is responding to a particular issue related to change in the US Common Core curriculum where literary non-fiction is receiving attention. Is tension between fiction and non-fiction a trend you have seen in your workplace?

2.2 Think of an occasion when you have witnessed tension between what a teacher or student is looking for and what a library collection holds.

  • To respond to the think activities in Module 2, Section 2.2 I would have to be in a position to witness such events within the workplace, since I am a casual with little experience and mainly focus at a school that does not have a librarian and hasn’t for the past 3 years it is hard to comment on whether there is tension or not, since the use of the library is a space meant for students to calm down rather than a kingpin within the school community.

2.3 Locate a library curating on Scoop.it, Pinterest, LibGuides or another tool and write a short review of this curation channel and the content that has been curated.

Radford College Secondary Library on Scoop.it

  • Exploration of Scoop.it has opened my eyes to a new method of organisation and a way to promote topics that are of high value to myself and the school community. Whilst Radford College’s Scoop.it hasn’t been curated for a few years, the topics they did cover show a very interesting and connective school community.
  • The curators have incorporated sections for students and teachers presenting learning topics, professional development, relatable text lists and important areas of health, such as wellbeing for both teachers and students to access. They have covered numerous key areas of learning and present it in a straightforward and visual way for their users. Their scoops were current for the times and focus on the ‘hot’ topics. The topics and scoops that they follow also provide numerous avenues for students and teachers to explore.

I feel my professional knowledge is going to benefit from Scoop.it provided I can find the most recent and up-to-date content.

21.3.19 – Weekly Feelings.

Even with the best of intentions, this blogging business is a challenge to wrap my mind around. My intention is to have a weekly post on my experiences of the past week as well as summation posts of the week in both 503 and of 401. I find that I’m so overwhelmed in the content though that I might need to figure a way to condense my learning. I’m taking one bite at a time but can I bite fast enough to keep up? Blog posts, forums, a lot of readings and working on the assignment. How do people manage with children and a full-time job? I’ve only managed to get my head up to speed since I’ve forgone posting on the Forums for the moment and I’ve been sick and had 3 days to dedicate to getting back up to where I need to be.

Positive thoughts from here on out! I’ve got my weekly breakdown, now to tackle the terminology! Step by step. Breath by breath.

This is worth it.

Also; keep your planner up to date, even when busy at school! It’s so much easier keeping track of what I want to do this week when it’s pre-planned and ready for me to tackle. I want to use this space as a way to vent my frustrations and then reframe my mind in a positive light; motivate myself!

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