Journal of Online Learning Research and Practice Volume 7, Number 2, 2019 | Página 26

Journal of Online Learning Research and Practice • Volume 7, Number 2 • 2019
Spectrum Educational Tool: Animated
Scenarios for Teacher Preparation
L. Octavia Tripp, Cheryl D. Seals, and Robertson Bassy
Auburn University, USA
Abstract
With the ubiquitous nature of information supported by the
growth of the Internet, eLearning has become an effective learning
mechanism, promoted as a method to reduce difficulties for
learners. We developed the Spectrum educational tool as an online
instrument to support preservice teachers in practicing classroom
management techniques. This blended learning approach with
the tool aims to incorporate animation-based case studies in the
place of existing text-based case studies to help preservice teachers
grasp concepts more effectively. Interactive case studies provide
more support for content reinforcement, critical thinking, and reflection
skills than text-based case studies. This work focuses on
the behavioral problems teachers may face in the classroom, helping
them overcome difficult situations by showing them effective
ways of teaching and classroom management. The previous version
of this project, developed using web development and Flash
animation, is in the new web development standard for animation
support HTML5 and JavaScript for the updated version. With this
type of development, our application is supported on almost all
devices and is cross-platform independent. The proposed design
for the Spectrum educational tool was a low cost alternative and
an interface that targets both web and mobile platforms. Preservice
teachers may gain access to the application by registering, and our
hope is that they find it interesting and helpful to access classroom
management content and examples online. The goal of the Spectrum
educational tool is to design and develop preservice teachers
through interactive case studies.
Keywords: preservice teacher, teacher training, online learning, human
computer interaction, eLearning platforms, classroom management,
behavior management, animation
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doi: 10.18278/jolrap.7.2.3