Constructionism in Practice
This week’s instructional strategy, generating and testing hypotheses, correlates well with the core principals of constructivist/constructionist learning theories. While generating and testing hypotheses students will be constructing a meaningful artifact that can be shared with others (Orey, 2007). Whether using spreadsheets, data collection tools, or the Internet - as students research their hypotheses and begin collecting data, their artifact begins taking shape. Through the process of discovery, students will use data to determine the validity of their original hypotheses by reflecting on the artifact being created. Utilizing interactive applications allows students to input their raw data and then focus more time on interpreting that data rather than gathering and crunching the numbers (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). The ability for students to participate in the creation of the artifacts from start to finish assists them in seeing the connections between the data collected and the hypotheses. As Dr. Orey stated, the main tenet of constructionism is that people learn best when they build and external artifact that can share with others (Laureate Education, Inc., 2010). Generating and testing hypotheses is a good way for teachers and students to integrate the main tenet of the constructionist learning theory into the classroom.
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program 7: Constructionist and Constructivist Learning Theories [Webcast]. Understanding the impact of technology on education, work, and society. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Orey, M. (Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page
After reading your post and reflecting on some of your past posts and since you teach technology in elementary school, I was just wondering how you integrate project topics into your curriculum. Do you provide a general direction and you allow students leeway in choosing a specific topic or do you specify a topic? Also, does the age of the student play a part in how you handle this? Is the focus with the younger students more on acquiring computer skills and as they progress gradually finding ways to use those skills? Sounds exciting to introduce and expand technology use to younger students.
ReplyDeleteMargaret,
ReplyDeleteIn most cases, general direction is given when the writing assignments are given and age does play a large part in deciding how much leeway is given. The emerging writers are given more direction and guidance and then, as they become more proficient in their writing abilities, more freedom is given for choosing topics and style. I have found that if direction is not given, students will seek to find their equilibration rather then challenge themselves and move beyond what they already know.
As the computer teacher, I am always focused on teaching technology. Many of my lessons are built around what is happening in their classrooms. No matter what the subject may be, I try to find technology that will help students deepen their knowledge of the core subject matter while building and enhancing their technology skills.
I think your blog has made some great points. In order for students to learn we must place them in situations that allow them to create events where artifacts are made and can be shared with other. This is the same thing most teachers already do by using the student based learning methods. Great post!
ReplyDeleteLearning this week about the importance of creating artifacts has made me reflect on projects in my own classroom. At one point, I had all students create a cell project. In the last couple of years I have only offered this as extra credit. Because of what I have learned this week, I will be implementing the cell project as a grade. I have found that students understand the cell parts better when they have created their own personal artifact. I do not want to feel that I am not providing enough for all students in my class to be successful. This is why the project will now be required.
ReplyDelete