“Problem solving is related to other terms such as thinking, reasoning, decision making, critical thinking, and creative thinking” (Mayer, 2009). That reason alone defines the use and reasoning behind problem- solving methods during learning in the classroom. Most people utilize problem- solving methods in day to day life as well as in educational situations. As a life- long student I have always found it very effective and useful. Rather it be math or spelling the ability to solve a problem is based off of one’s skillset. This blog is very informative for an individual that may need a breakdown of the tools required and the background behind effectively solving problems. ”Human beings are storytelling primates. We are curious, and we love to learn. The challenge for each teacher is to find ways to engage the child and take advantage of the novelty-seeking property of the human brain to facilitate learning” (Perry, 2013). As Dr. Perry stated humans are curious and we definitely love to and encourage learning. This website introduces people to the ideology behind humans and the need to learn, as well as the brains ability to retain and reinforce information they have learned. In the classroom many children have subjects that they prefer over others and it is shown through their energy and participation during the activities related to the subject. I believe sites such as this one assist teachers with understanding how the child’s brain works during the instruction and how the attention span is longer or shorter from one subject to the next. Perry, B. (2013). How the Brain Learns Best. Scholastic. Retrieved from http://teacher.scholastic.com/professional/bruceperry/brainlearns.htm. Mayer, R. (2009, December 23). Problem Solving. Education.com. Retrieved from http://www.education.com/reference/article/problem-solving1/

Blog Idols

1. The eLearning coach site is very colorful and visually intriguing. It is a great site for an instructional designer that is intrigued by new designs and ideas for instruction through the online community. They give tips on realistic graphic images, social media resources for instruction and information about new advances and professional development within the online community of designers and programs. This is necessary in this new age of technology so that one is not left behind in their field. To be the best or be on the front line of competitors in a field one must be innovative and progressive. http://theelearningcoach.com/category/elearning_design/isd/ 2. The Rapid eLearning site offers exceptional information about eLearners and instructional tools for instructors of online education and assessment. An example of the discussed topics: free Power Point templates, online training programs, and Visual & Graphic Design and Video & Audio tips. The site also provides options for an individual to learn how to save time online, present stunning visuals for web pages and/ or online courses. I feel that this site is great for older individuals or instructional designers that are not the most technologically savvy. The site is very informative and gives links for other sites that are resourceful as well. http://www.articulate.com/rapid-elearning/ 3. The Global Learning site provides an outlet to educators and visual instructors that use online or media resources. I believe this is useful for teachers as well as instructional designers. It gives information about new and innovative instruction techniques throughout the U.S. and countries outside of the U.S. The ability to reach people through online access opens the door to many opportunities. People have the shared and discovered several instructional techniques through media outlets. The accessibility that internet gives is unlike the instruction of the past with textbooks, newsletters, or a VHS tape. http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/global_learning/