Expanding Active Learning Approaches Through Technological Integration
General description of the project
This proposal builds upon my 2021 article published by HETS, “Active Learning Approaches to Improve Teachers’ Research Skills Using Virtual Classroom Tools During COVID-19 Pandemic,” incorporating additional technologies to address the evolving needs of students in the Master of Arts in Education program at the Inter American University of Puerto Rico. Recognizing the necessity for broader tools to achieve research educational competencies, this show case shares results of innovative platforms and strategies to enhance active learning, critical thinking, and collaboration in distance graduate education courses.
Technologies
This showcase shares experiences using technologies to improve research educational competencies effectively. For example, Microsoft Teams, integrated into the Blackboard platform, is serving as a central hub for virtual collaboration, fostering dynamic interactions among students and faculty. Also incorporating Microsoft Word’s “References” has provided as a practical tool for teaching citation and academic writing considering credible sources into research work. To simplify statistical concepts, tools like the Sample Size Calculator have been used as hands-on learning to understand significance levels and sample size reliability considerations to be included in research proposals. And recently, ChatGPT has been introduced to support creative and analytical tasks, guided by ethical frameworks from the U.S. Department of Education and institutional professional development activities promoted by the Inter American University of Puerto Rico. These technologies collectively address critical gaps in research education, ensuring that graduate teacher students are well-equipped for academic and professional success in the future.
Explain project results
The implementation of these technologies has significantly improved research competencies among students. For example, graduate students feel more confident in applying statistical and referencing skills to their research, particularly considering sample size parameters in research. The integration of Microsoft Teams has fostered a sense of community, enabling collaborative learning and peer support. There is evidence of improvement in the quality of student proposals, measured through rubric-based evaluations focusing on clarity, originality, and adherence to academic standards after discussing the Department of Education Office of Educational Technology’s new policy report (see https://tech.ed.gov/ai-future-of-teaching-and-learning/ ). Recently, the ethical discussion and incorporation of ChatGPT has enhanced students’ ability to generate innovative research ideas and refine arguments. These outcomes demonstrate that the project not only meets but exceeds its objective of developing robust research skills among graduate students, while simultaneously aligning with institutional goals for excellence in education.
Why it should be considered best practice?
I think this showcase will share best practices in integrating technology into research education, particularly within a Hispanic/Latino Graduate Teachers. By combining accessible tools with a focus on active learning, the initiative addresses key barriers to student success, such as the complexity of statistical analysis and the integration of credible sources. The use of ethical discussions of AI tools like ChatGPT and aligning them with global educational trends and preparing graduate teacher students for the challenges of modern academia is something innovative. Its adaptability, cost-effectiveness, could be a model for other institutions aiming to enhance research education through technology, particularly in the teaching of graduate education students.
Highlights of your proposed presentation
This presentation will outline the technologies used, their implementation, and the pedagogical benefits achieved. Key highlights include:
1. Live Demonstrations: Practical examples of how Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Word’s “References” feature, and online statistical tools are integrated into the research course (EDUC 6931) of the Inter American University of Puerto Rico.
2. Student Success Stories: Case studies and testimonials showcasing improvements in research proposals and overall competencies. Quantitative and Qualitative data will be shared.
3. AI Integration: An in-depth discussion on the responsible use of ChatGPT, aligned with ethical and academic standards. Example of active learning and assessment artifacts will be shared.
4. Lessons Learned: Reflections on challenges and solutions in implementing these technologies effectively. Students opinions will be shared.
5. Collaborative Engagement: An interactive Q&A session to discuss how attendees can replicate these practices in their institutions. Time will be provided for interaction with attendees.
The session intends to provide participants with other possible strategies for incorporating technology into their teaching practices, fostering collaboration, and advancing equity in Hispanic/Latino education, particularly in teacher education programs.
The Evaluation Committee will evaluate submitted proposals based on the following criteria. Each area will be rated on a scale from 1 to 5 (1= non-satisfactory; 5 =outstanding), for a maximum of 45 points.