Blog Post #1: Zeah Roberts

“Hi Zeah,

I am also a constructivist and like a more hands on approach when it comes to learning. I love how you connected your experience with this specific approach. I agree that applying ideas to real-life scenarios through hands-on activities helps us absorb more information. I enjoyed reading about your best learning experience in high school. Role playing, especially when debating different perspectives, helps solidify theories in a way traditional lectures often don’t. The fact that you could draw on your experiences when learning the theory behind them is a great example of how experiential learning can deepen our understanding.“

Blog Post #2: https://taralync.opened.ca/blog-post-2-cooperative-learning/#comment-2

“Hi, 

This is such a well-articulated and insightful overview of cooperative learning! I really appreciate how clearly you connected it to differentiated instruction; your explanation of how group work can support diverse learners through peer collaboration and multiple learning styles is especially compelling. I especially appreciate your emphasis on positive interdependence and face-to-face interaction really highlights the social-emotional benefits of this approach too, as it is an aspect I overlooked. You’ve made a strong case for how cooperative learning not only enhances academic understanding but also builds empathy and community in the classroom. Great Job tying theory to practice so effectively! Parmis:)”

Blog Post #3: https://taralync.opened.ca/post-3/#comment-3

“Hi Taralyn,
You’ve created a wonderfully comprehensive and thoughtful learning resource! Im really impressed by the attention to accessibility and inclusion throughout your design. Offering multiple formats like interactive content, videos, etc, really supports diverse learning styles. Your commitment to universal design principles like screen reader compatibility and closed captions demonstrates a deep understanding of the importance of giving all students what they need to succeed, rather than giving every student the same thing. Your forward-thinking approach to remote learning and emergency preparedness ties everything together beautifully. Excellent job!
Parmis:)”

Blog Post #3: Universal Design: https://casshull.opened.ca/blog-post-3/

“Hi Cassie,
I really enjoyed reading this post! You’ve done a great job showing how universal design principles can be applied to make programming more accessible and less intimidating for beginners. I especially like how you addressed different learning styles with a variety of tools (diagrams, videos, and hands-on practice) so that every learner can find an entry point that works for them. Your ideas for adapting the module during unexpected disruptions, like moving online, were practical and thoughtful. Also, it’s great that you acknowledged technological challenges like issues with access and suggested real solutions (paper-based coding and library rentals.) Overall, this feels like a genuinely inclusive approach well done! 

Parmis:)”

Blog Post #3: Zeah Roberts

“Hi Zeah,
I really enjoyed reading your post and loved how you connected information from my post to your own. Open pedagogy is indeed a powerful approach, especially in diverse learning environments/classrooms. The connection you made to differentiated learning is really interesting–allowing students to take ownership of their learning and education can help effectively address different needs and learning styles. A question that arises with this approach is whether challenges like digital access or varying student motivation levels would impact its effectiveness.”

Blog post #4: https://ellameld99.opened.ca/blog-post-4/?unapproved=4&moderation-hash=b0a3b5ac0d6abe9b22251bd40c76902a#comment-4

“Hi Ella,
I love how your activity promotes both creativity and critical thinking! Giving students the freedom to express their understanding through different video formats like music video or news segment. I think this is such a fun and engaging way to ensure learning. Using tools like Padlet or private TikTok channels is also a smart way to meet students where they’re already comfortable digitally. I especially like how you thought about inclusion: offering options like voice-overs and captioned videos shows care for diverse needs. Great work designing something that’s both meaningful and flexible! 

Parmis:)”

Blog Post #4: https://klgrove20.opened.ca/post-4/?unapproved=8&moderation-hash=ed25cc775c625e2e24e66e05ead8f8cf#comment-8

“Hi Katelyn,

You’ve done a great job designing a learning activity that’s both reflective and interactive! I really like how you tied in user-generated interactivity through self-reflection and then built on that with a structured online discussion. Your prompt example is excellent as it encourages learners to make personal connections while still engaging critically with the content. I also like your realistic take on instructor workload which is something I realize I may have missed to acknowledge. Recognizing the need for balance between effort and impact is important and your strategies for managing it are smart and practical ( word limits and clear prompts.) Overall, this is a well-thought-out and meaningful way to encourage deeper engagement with the video material!

Parmis:)”