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Applying Constructionist Principles to Online Teacher Professional Development

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Open access
Authors
Ostashewski, Nathaniel
Moisey, S.
Reid, D.
Date
2011
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Type
Journal Article
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Abstract

This report explores the first iteration of a teacher professional development courseletgrounded in constructionist theory and activities. This online teacher professional development(oTPD) courselet provided opportunities for teachers to engage in just-in-time, ongoingTPD within a social networking site for educators. The topic of the oTPD was Roboticsand Hands-on Activities in the Classroom. The courselet was designed for teachers who areinterested in integrating constructionist pedagogies into their practice. Key findings of thefirst delivery of the oTPD courselet point to a need for flexible access, sharing of resources,and support for constructionist pedagogical activities as a PD value for participants. Findingsfurther support the potential for an ongoing online community of practice around roboticsin the classroom. The approach taken in this oTPD courselet of study continues toinform a model of oTPD delivery within a social-networking-enabled environment.

Citation
Ostashewski, N. and Moisey, S. and Reid, D. 2011. Applying Constructionist Principles to Online Teacher Professional Development. The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning. 12 (6): pp. 143-156.
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The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning
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