Module 5 Response

When introducing new technology hat attitudes did people exhibit? What behaviors did they demonstrate? Using Keller’s ARCS model, describe how you could change the motivation of these people, or learners, to encourage success.



One of the greatest technologies I have discovered for my classroom is the virtual lab. There are online labs that students can complete that give the full benefit of the science laboratory. There are also math labs available online. The problem is that I have shown it to many teachers excited with the new labs we could never have done before but no one is interested in trying. Each teacher I have introduced this too has the hardware necessary to do it but they are not using the labs. When asked most of the teachers say they love the idea but they are afraid if they plan the day to use a virtual lab and the internet is down then they have no plan for the day. Also they are afraid of using too much class time and not covering all of their standards.

By doing this I will give more relevance to the labs and perhaps get the participants more involved. I think if the teachers feel more confident about being able to cover their standards then they will be more likely to participate in trying new methods (keller, 2008).
I like having standards based curriculum but sometimes it seems like it can suck the imagination out of the teachers. They know they cover their standards a certain way and making any change will disrupt their routine. The virtual labs let the kids think outside the box and I actually think that is more important than making sure they memorized all of the scientific method from their notes. If they did the virtual lab then they are practicing the scientific method and it will have a stronger effect on their learning process.

I think If I take the labs and break them down by the standards that are covered that more teachers would be willing to try them. If a teacher feels that he or she has covered x amount of standards with a lab that encourages critical thinking then I might see more participants.

Debbie Stripling

keller, J. (2008) ARCS Model of Motivational Design. Retrieved August 10th, 2011from http://www.learning-theories.com/kellers-arcs-model-of-motivational-design.html