You Tube

Many academics argue whether You Tube should be incorporated into learning. You Tube is an online database for video clips (You Tube, 2009). The sources can be unreliable and misleading. For example, when I was researching and designing for a learning experience about phases of the moon I came across a really good video that I couldn't use because the moon was revolving around the Earth the wrong way. Nevertheless, there can be some great educational benefits from using video clips. This video about the Great Barrier Reef was a great hook to use when discussing environmental awareness.

It may be seen that Kearsley & Shneiderman's engagement theory would agree with this tool being used as a hook. It has relevance and meaning to each student as it's a real life situation and a genuine problem (Kearsley & Schneiderman, 1999). To elaborate further, Central Queensland University (2002) discusses the importance of problem based learning. This confrontation with a real life situation places them in an active role as problem solvers and encourages higher order thinking (CQU, 2002).

Reference List

Central Queensland University (CQU). 2002. Problem based learning. Retrieved August 19, 2009, from http://pbl.cqu.edu.au/

Kearsley, G. & Shneiderman, B. (1999). Engagement Theory: A framework for technology-based teaching and learning. Retrieved July 16, 2009, from http://home.sprynet.com/~gkearsley/engage.htm

You Tube. 2009. You tube: Broadcast yourself. Retrieved August 19, 2009, from http://www.youtube.com/