Learning Objects
Learning objects are multimedia digital resources which can be used to enhance learning in the classroom (Wiley, 2000). They assist with learning due to their ability to engage and motivate the learner in multiple ways. Moving away from a teacher centred environment, learning objects offer students a more enjoyable way of learning through the use of technology. As a result, this helps to captivate the student in the particular topic and provide them with a greater motivation to learn.
Learning objects can include anything from games to activities, to simulations to competitions. The key difference between a learning object and other independent multimedia games or activities, is that learning objects are designed purposely to target a specific area of learning for students (NSW Department of Education and Training, 2011). Learning objects allow students to extend their learning outside of the classroom as they can be accessed outside of class time. Teachers often encourage their students to access learning objects out of class time as a form of revision or home work.
Not only do learning objects provide students with further opportunities for learning, but they also allow an individual to learn about ICT. Students can learn valuable ICT skills from learning objects, such as typing, accessing information and many more. Education should reflect the society of which we live in, and therefore schools should largely incorporate technology into its curriculum (Downes, 2001).
Below I have included a few examples of Learning Objects that can be used in the classroom:
ZEBRA KEYS
Zebra Keys is a learning object which helps individuals to learn to play the piano or keyboard. Catering for beginner and immediate levels, this activity allows children and adults to develop the basic skills required to learn the piano. Visual flash animations are used to allow the user to view and hear the songs they play by clicking on the digital keyboard displayed on the screen. Computers with touch screens, allow the user to play the keys on the screen using their fingers. The learning object first teaches the user the layout of a piano and basic music notation and then the different piano chords. Once the learner has learned the basic skills to play the piano, they can also play along with the animations on a piano of their own.
MATHLETICS
Mathletics strives to “help students enjoy mathematics and achieve outstanding results” in maths in an engaging and enjoyable way (3P learning, n.d). The website consists of more than one thousand maths games which focus on a wide range of mathematical skills. Students can compete against others around from around the world, or race the clock to improve their best result. The website is beneficial to students as it can be accessed within class time or when away from school. There are various levels that students can complete and progress through, depending on their knowledge and skill level. This is valuable as it allows students to work at their own level and strive to achieve greater results. Practising maths using Mathletics gives the students more control in their learning by moving away from a teacher-centred approach (DEECD, 2010).
SPELLASAURUS
The kids spell website provides students with a range of English games for primary aged students. The learning object Spellasaurus helps students to practise their spelling skills. Using the arrows on the keyboard, the aim is to move the helicopter animation over the selected letters. While doing so, there is an animated dinosaur which is moving around the screen eating the letters. This enables students to think quickly when spelling the words as they are racing against the clock. In addition, the students can select the difficulty of the spelling words so that the activity can reflect their own knowledge levels.
HUMAN BODY
http://www.bbc.co.uk/science/humanbody/body/index_interactivebodyhumanbody/body/index_interactivebody
This learning object links to a science lesson in the classroom as it allows for students to learn about the parts that make up the human body. This particular learning object requires students to drag the bones in the body onto an outline of the human body. If the part is placed in the incorrect position, then they are able to have a hint given or take another guess. The website also has similar learning objects which allow students to learn about other elements of the body such as organs, muscles and the nervous system.
GEO GAMES
The Geo Games is an effective learning object for students as it is an enjoyable and engaging way to learn about various animals as well as different sporting events. Found on the National Geographic website, this learning object allows students to compete in a variety of virtual sporting events such as badminton, gymnastics, weightlifting, javelin and diving. Each event is done by an animal which relates to the event, such as a dolphin diving and an elephant weightlifting. This learning object allows the student to learn about different aspects about the animals while competing in the events.
CRUCIAL CREW
Crucial crew is a learning object dedicated to teaching young people about safety in their environment. It is an interactive activity where students can click on different parts of the town and learn about the different dangers that could occur. Some of these include building construction sites, railway crossings, houses and parks. Upon visiting the different areas of town, users witness scenarios and are then asked to decide what path they would take if they were placed in a situation. If they choose the wrong option, for example entering a construction zone in order to take a short cut to the local park, then they are told about some of the dangers that could occur. This learning object could be explored individually or certain scenarios could also be shown to a whole class to link to a particular topic.
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