3 Blogs: A Showcase of Resources to Monitor / 011914 Module 1

To kick off a celebration of learning related to instructional design, below I showcase profiles of and learning observations about three blogs that touch on the topic. Note that I wanted to choose and follow an eclectic mix of resources and will likely grow this list – along with the links attached to it.

CECS 5210 – Personal Theory of Learning
http://hollykcecs5210.wordpress.com/

This blog provides foundational ideas related to both instructional design and learning theory. While the writer demonstrates a thoughtful abstract appreciation for these concepts, the real win is in seeing development of some examples. Though it appears the site only has a couple of entries, it’s inspirational in its purity and focus.

I anticipate the benefit of following this blog will come from re-evaluating and contrasting her ideas and experiences with those I have and those of others. The writer’s directness is refreshing and relatable.

Red Pen Confessions
http://redpenconfessions.wordpress.com/

Written by a vibrant, passionate educator, this blog elaborates on topics that keep the educator’s perspective and skills fresh. Her entries demonstrate continued enthusiasm for her field and her students. The site exudes thought, humor and openness. In the grand scheme of things, her entries address education issues broadly. However, a key component of her interests relates to taking advantage of cyber-communication, and she touches on items from  instructional design-focused bloggers like Bill Ferriter (one of her favorites).

I anticipate the benefit of following this blog will come from relating to her combination of pragmatism and ethically motivated quest to provide good ideas and tools for students.

Fannetaylor
http://fannetaylor.wordpress.com/

Fannetaylor provides the perspective of a physician and medical educator. In a thoughtful analysis of factors crucial to good teaching, she expands on comparisons of learning models and an understanding of factors related to learning (including learning styles). One modern benefit of her analysis is that she compares models for experiential learning theory (ELT) and guided experiential learning (GEL).

I anticipate the benefit of following this blog to come from the author’s persistent analytics. Her style and focus involves understanding concepts and practical comparisons. Keeping abreast of relevant topics in this arena will frame a myriad of means for improving instructional design.