I agree with, and teach using the Constructionist Learning Theory. “The Constructionist theory builds on the Constructivist theories of Jean Piaget, asserting that knowledge is not simply transmitted from teacher to student, but actively constructed in the mind of the learner” (Orey, 2001). I believe that it is very important for the students to be actively involved in their learning and having the students “create” an artifact is a perfect way to get them involved. I agree with Dr. Orey when he says that constructionism is a “theory of learning that states people learn best when they build an external artifact of something they can share with others” (Laureate Education, 2009).
In Chapter 11 Generating and Testing Hypotheses, there are many examples of how students can use technology in order to create a final project. "Technology can play a vital role in generating and testing hypotheses because new developments in probeware and interactive applets allow students to spend more time interpreting the data rather than gathering the data - a processing that can be tedious and error prone" (Hubbell, Kuhn, Malenoski, 2007). They go on to give many examples of how allowing students to use a spreadsheet can help them to prove their hypothesis. Not only can students use spreadsheets to incorporate technology in proving a hypothesies but, "Simulation software also can provide incredibly engaging learning environments, resulting in increased motivation and retention in learning" (Hubbell, Kuhn, Malenoski, 2007).
There are so many posibilites when using technology. This is a technology rich environment and according to Miss Donovan, “Their future is technology and they have to know how to use this in many different formats” (Laureate Education, 2009). As teachers, we need to give the students as much exposure to technology and its abilities as possible. Allowing students to create a project using the computer will help them to retain the information that they are being taught. Following the constructionist/constructivist approach, our focus needs to be on the students being active and engaged in the constructing of artifacts.
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Susan,
ReplyDeleteI am amazed by all the technology and possible tasks that may be accomplished when we use it. It was interesting to listen to Miss Donovan say that many times she would ask the students for help regarding technology. Many times I do the same thing. This generation is so advanced that using technology in schools is a great tool to prepare them for a successful future.
Susan,
ReplyDeleteTechnology is the future, and as teachers we must get our students as familiar with technology as much as possible. With technology students are active and engaged, and that is whats so great about it. And like Miss Donovan, I ask my students to assist me with technology because sometimes they know more than I do about it.
Susan,
ReplyDeleteI agree that probeware and interactive applets can be very useful in providing students with the opportunity to construct their own learning. Most students are fully capable of gathering data, but true learning occurs when they are involved in interpreting and analyzing the data. I think that many of the lessons that my district provides us with, especially science lessons, have students more involved with the collection of data. For instance, my students were just asked to collect data on the number of different colored fish that they could catch from a pond. The object of the lesson was to have students see how an animal's ability to camouflage impacts its survival. While the students did have fun "fishing", I feel that they could have gotten a lot more out of the lesson. I would really like to implement one of the ideas mentioned in chapter 11 in the future.
Susan,
ReplyDeleteI agree that there are so many possibilities with technology. It opens up so many opportunities for educators. Technology can be the difference maker in each child's life regardless of the other challenges in the child's life.