Interactive Learning Objects

Using Interactive Learning Objects

in Primary classrooms

For ICT's in Learning Design the next group of technologies we were asked to explore was open-ended, so we were able to have a play with whatever kind of tool we wanted.  So of course after getting an overview of the recommended tools I decided upon interactive learning objects, because they're, well... games!

Yes, they're carefully developed and tested to enhance learning outcomes and link to the curriculum.  But still, games!  Who doesn't love a good game? (Actually, I did have a flatmate when I lived in Brisbane for uni who informed us vehemently that "I don't like games!" when asked if she wanted to get in on a round of Scrabble.  Odd duck).

My first stop when looking around for interactive learning objects (ILO's) was Scootle.  I found ILO's for all grade levels and KLA's, and wasted about two hours playing with them... 

I would definitely use these in my classroom.  They're fun, engaging, develop kids' computer skills and link to the curriculum.  I started my embedded professional learning (EPL) this week, and my mentor teacher has made use of several of these ILO's with her students.

For the Technology lesson on Monday, students made their way to the computer lab and participated in an ILO multiplication game called Pirates II.  The students were motivated to complete the times tables questions to earn 'resources' for their pirate ships.  This activity worked to engage all of the students, even those who are struggling with their mathematics.

In the classroom I have been working in for my EPL there is an Autistic student.  He does not respond well to traditional teaching methods (sitting still, paying quiet attention), but does have a very visual learning style.  This student has a computer station in the classroom, and uses ILO's for many of his lessons.  Due to the fact that ILO's are a visual tool and he can work at his own pace, he works well with them.

When looking at ILO's, I can see an overwhelming amount of positive aspects versus very few negatives, and plenty of possibilities for enhancing learning experiences;

Positives

• ILO's are engaging; they take the form of many students' favourite pasttimes (video games).
• They also serve to develop students' computer literacy skills, essential for navigating an increasingly technological landscape.
• There are ILO's that cover most topics, and those on Scootle or the Learning Place are pre-linked to the Australian Curriculum.
• Most ILO's use a system of rewards; students can earn 'achievements' by completing their work.  This increases motivation and gives students a sense of mastery.
• Many students will happily use ILO's for homework.  Having work presented in a fun manner increases the likelihood that they will actually complete homework activities.
• ILO's are reusable and easily accessible making them ideal for repeated use and use across classes (Kay, R. & Knaack, L. 2008).
•  They are usually straightforward and don't require users to spend large amounts of time learning how to navigate the system.

Negatives

• If students do not have access to computers or internet at home, they will not be able to complete set homework tasks and may become disadvantaged.
• They are usually web-based and therefore require fast and reliable internet; although most Queensland schools have a sufficient connection.

Opportunities

• ILO's can be used by students of all ages, and add an interactive and engaging element to their learning experience.
• ILO's could also be used as 'reward time' for students who complete work early or as a reward for good behaviour.
• For example, looking on Scootle I found an ILO called Letter Planet.  Letter Planet is ideal for Prep or Grade 1, and focuses on letter sounds, consonant diagraphs and word structure.  I spent some time with my daughter (aged 5 in Prep) and she LOVED it.  
• ILO's could be effective for Autistic students, as they use visual elements and are practical activities which is consistent with many Autistic students' preferred learning styles.

I would definitely recommend these activities for homework or class activities.  I would use them as an incentive as well for good behaviour, as they can seem like a 'treat' for students.

References

Kay, R. & Knaack, L. (2008). Investigating the use of Learning Objects for Secondary School Mathematics. Interdisciplinary Journal of E-Learning and Learning Objects. Volume 4. Retrieved 19th April, 2013 from http://www.ijello.org/Volume4/IJELLOv4p269-289Kay.pdf