PLO 6: Applied Knowledge/Theory and Practice Research

Demonstrate the ability to conduct meaningful research with competency and proficiency while utilizing properly cited critical and information literacies that result in synthesis of process, creative problem solving, and the ability to move between discipline specific, trans/interdisciplinary, integrative, and collaborative approaches.

For PLO 6 I decided to use Artifact 5 because it is both a video presentation and a research paper done for EDMS 3010 during the Fall 2021 semester. This was a fascinating exercise in research and applied knowledge, but I also found the topic I was researching to be particularly fascinating in part because it allowed me to think back on my own upbringing and compare it to more modern findings and practices.

My video and essay demonstrate competency and proficiency in conducting meaningful research by utilizing properly cited critical and information literacies. I incorporated a variety of sources, both primary and secondary, to support my arguments and ideas, then cited them using the style requested by the professor. In doing so, I demonstrated the ability to critically evaluate sources and use information effectively to support my arguments. I analyzed and synthesized information from multiple sources, and in doing so demonstrated an understanding of the topic at hand.

In my video and essay, I have identified a problem, the resistance of educators to use digital technology in the classroom, and proposed a solution, the need for educators to understand and make use of technology. I direct readers toward the importance of digital competence in the classroom, which is a creative solution to the challenges of the modern era. I have synthesized information from multiple research studies and identified a common theme in educators' reluctance to use digital technology in the classroom. Additionally, I have synthesized information from my personal experiences with technology and my grandfather's encouragement to learn about it. I analyzed research studies and used their findings to support my argument. I used specific examples to illustrate my points, such as the prevalence of technology in our everyday lives. Additionally, I have drawn on research studies from multiple disciplines, including education, technology, and psychology, to both support my argument and show how technology can be used in multiple subjects within education, highlighting the need for educators to integrate technology into their teaching practices and collaborate with other educators to increase their digital competence. Finally, artifact 5 demonstrates my ability to use both integrative and collaborative approaches. In the essay I highlight how technology should be integrated into as many fields as possible, so students have as many opportunities as possible to practice with it, however I also draw information from my personal experience with technology and my grandfather's encouragement with research studies to support my argument. I integrated information from multiple sources to develop a comprehensive understanding of the importance of digital competence in the classroom. Furthermore, a collaborative approach can be seen in the results of my research. The results show the importance of educators collaborating with each other to increase their digital competence. Additionally, I identified the need for educators to collaborate with students to incorporate technology into their learning experiences.