Demonstrating the Learner Profile Through A Photo Story
An important understanding for me from Course 1 is that we need to provide students with authentic learning experiences. Students need to have a purpose in what they do and then they will see the value in their assignments and take more ownership of them. We should not think of technology as an afterthought or an add-on, it should be embedded into our daily activities. Our school is an IBO World School and my lesson is for students to demonstrate how they exhibit traits of the Learner Profile using the program Photo Story 3.
Background: Students had some discussions in class about the Learner Profile (this is not a new concept for them because it is a focus in every classroom, every year) and brainstormed ways that they could demonstrate each of the traits of the Learner Profile (caring, balanced, thinker, inquirer, knowledgeable, risk-taker, principled, open-minded, communicator and reflective). Students were asked to bring in photos of them personally, or use images from the internet (and put on a USB) demonstrating some of the traits of the Learner Profile.
Our school is starting a 1:1 ipad program in September 2012, but for now our students go to a computer lab for lessons. Teaching students to be independent is always a goal, so instead of standing at the front of the room and lecturing students, all students, using headphones and a computer watched the Photo Story 3 Tutorial and completed their own photo story at their own pace, using peers and teachers to help them if needed. They are used to using tutorials as a way of learning new programs. Below is an example of a one student’s photo story.
Reflections: Students enjoyed creating their own photo story and improved their knowledge of the Learner Profile and learned some new technology skills while doing so. The Learner Profile became more personal to them as they were able to demonstrate ways they exhibit it. Most students were able to work independently, but collaboration between students is encouraged, so they could run ideas past each other and ask for help when they needed it. We learn by doing and students who help others gain a deeper understanding for themselves. When students completed their photo story they wrote written reflections on how they demonstrated the Learner Profile. They addressed traits of the Learner Profile that are more difficult for them to demonstrate and set a goal to improve in that area. Students reflected on the Photo Story experience and assessed their learning of the program.
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