Technology

I think you guys nailed the top application for this technique/technology other than student-facing uses: Pro-D. I was crafting a post about it and then there it was in the next section! (I'll share it anyway as I have a link to a cool study I think everyone would really dig) I think there’s a fantastic opportunity here in the realm of teacher professional development. According to this recent study https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2020-04482-001, when teachers were given evidence based literature to counter misconceptions they were found to accept the evidence only to revert to their old ways a short time later. >>>The evidence of this study points to a need for ongoing supportive interventions rather than one-and-done PD day workshops as is common here in Canada and elsewhere. Microlearning modules seem like an excellent platform to facilitate this for the reasons you’ve highlighted.<<< Some side notes: (1) “According to an ATD report, the average amount of time for an ideal microlearning module is 10 minutes.” - this was based on a poll where they asked people what they thought was best. This is not scientific in any sense and gives no indication of systematically finding the optimum of an efficacy curve, which I think deserves further study if it hasn't had already. (2) On "What makes “micro” micro? " Perhaps there is no time limit or minimum. The nature of microlearning might mean that the length of a module suits the content, context, or both. (3) Microlearning was initially introduced as stepwise, each step with goals toward a larger goal. But the science supposedly supporting microlearning was actually in support of REPETITION specifically. Not to say that the definition was wrong, per se, but this is a specific detail that should be emphasized and should inform microlearning module design >> Steps are not enough. Learners need iteration, which is one of the ideas behind the “spiral” model of learning. (This notion is conspicuously absent from the “4 defining characteristics”)<<

I've noticed children are often the inspiration behind learning technology start ups. My son is what inspired my vision for an innovative learning technology. A problem is just a problem until it affects your personal life, then it becomes a problem that needs fixed. It can be a strong motivator. I also think it is significant that he piloted his app to demonstrate its potential value and scalability before asking for a larger investment. In other words, a Minimal Viable Product is a quick and effective way to find out just how promising your vision is.

Hey Heeweon, Great post! I agree with Evan that Lehtonen's passion for this venture is clear. After checking out 3DBear's website, they detail that the product is aimed at capitalizing on the 'Maker' movement, whereby students can plan, design, and create their own products using 3DBear's lessons and AR design templates found within their app/software. The uniqueness of implementing 3D printing into their venture is innovative and the global demand of which Lehtonen speaks shows great market potential for 3DBear. His drive to continuously learn and innovate speaks to his character as a potential role model for future or would-be entrepreneurs, as evidenced by ensuring his plastic recycler for 3D printers is open source. His product pitch focuses on improving the quality of education for youth, and well as making it more interactive and fun. The Ultimaker 3D printer showcased in their promo video retails for approximately $4-8K depending on the model. With the advance in 3D printing technology and availability, hopefully the cost of the 3D printers declines such that they can become more widely adopted in learning environments such as those Lehtonen describes. I'm left wondering if their software/app is compatible with any 3D printer...or is limited to a certain brand or type? For the teachers in the group - do your schools currently have 3D printers? Have they been successfully integrated within the school's curriculum/teacher lessons? Thanks again Heeweon for the great read! -Reg

EduCanon is a free online service designed to help educators apply flipped/blended learning in their classrooms. EduCanon helps educators customize existing online content to create and share interactive video lessons. For example, teachers begin with any video content such as YouTube, Vimeo, TeacherTube, Khan Academy, TED, NOVA, etc. and transform them into an active learning experience. The interactive process of EduCanon increases student engagement, which is an essential component to learning as each student has unique learning backgrounds. This is not only relevant to teaching and learning, it is offered in the spirit of true learning and socio-consciousness: EduCanon is a free service. Sign–up at https://www.educanon.com/ EduCanon founder, Ben, has teaching background with Teach for America and brings real-world, hands-on experience into his platform. EduCanon accolades already include: Won the McGraw-Hill Open Education Resource Prize as a finalist in 2014. Won the 1776 Global Challenge Cup Competition as the best education company globally. Honored as a member of the inaugural class of LearnLaunchX. EduCanon touts its venture as interactive video unleashed and has developed brand recognition with a hat wearing dog silhouette. This EVA recognizes the utility and potential of EduCanon and highly recommends this exciting new platform in learning technology. *Pitch review notes/experience: EduCanon CEO, Ben, delivered a compelling pitch beginning with a lively soundtrack intro to “Who let the dogs out!?” He was wearing a colorful tee-shirt with his brand logo—a dog and immediately explained his product as “Interactive video unleashed.” I tried to remain skeptica but I was hooked… I wanted to hear more.