I strongly believe that ALL students need to be engaged in learning activities. To ensure a positive learning experience problem-based and project-based learning experiences can be used. They are powerful when incorporated into daily classroom lessons. This type of learning is much more effective than having an instructor stand in front of a class lecturing. I recently listened to Dr. Orey speak about constructivism and constructionism. These are theories of knowledge that state that each individual actively constructs his or her own meaning to information given and that individuals learn best when they can build an external artifact that can be shared with others. We, as teachers, all strive for this type of learning to occur. Our goal is to allow our students to make connections and relate their learning to their own personal lives.
In the book, Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works, generating and testing hypotheses is discussed. Immediately, a picture of my fifth grade Science class appeared in my head. Little did I know. This strategy can be used in all subject areas. “When students generate and test hypotheses, they are engaging in complex mental processes, applying content knowledge like facts and vocabulary, and enhancing their overall understanding of the content” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007, p. 202). Students are able to state questions, make predictions, and collect data… This is where technology is beneficial. Spreadsheets can be created to collect data, research is conducted by visiting websites, and then various graphs can be created using appropriate computer programs.
As teachers, we must create valuable lessons and then select the most appropriate technologies to support those lessons and engage our students who possess multiple learning styles.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Suzie,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, as teachers we must try and reach all of our students using very creative lesson plans. In college, did we really learn very much from the professors who stood in front of us and lectured? No, I took more knowledge away from my hands on classes then my lecture classes.
Suzie,
ReplyDeleteThat's where I think we're really lucky that we work where we do. We have access to a lot more technology than most teachers. I didn't really think about creating hypotheses in other subject areas, either, but I think it's a great idea. And we have so many programs and tools available to help us integrate this method into different areas.
Erika,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you 100%! I learned much more from my professors who asked me to create, present, and play the role of an elementary student. I was able to understand how my students would react to specific assignments and not forced to sit for hours and pretend to comprehend.
Erin,
ReplyDeleteWe are very lucky! If I have questions or a problem, someone is usually there within minutes to help. I also believe that our technology department is as excited as we are about incorporating new ideas to assist our students. I taught in a school district where technology was not first priority. It was frusturating.