Constructivism is the learning process where students actively take part in their learning by asking questions, using resources to answer those questions, and then creating an artifact to demonstrate their knowledge. This type of learning can take place in all subject areas; however, the scientific structure of generating and testing hypotheses is used to answer the student’s questions (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). A teacher’s job in this type of thinking is that we create the basis for the student to be the best individual for future society. We never know when we are teaching the next scientist whom may cure a disease, the next doctor to save a child or even the next president.
Students can use Excel, scientific probes, and gaming technology to make and test hypotheses (Pitler, et al., 2007). Excel would be a form I could use in the gym because of the data collection that can occur. Also, the program would allow the students to compile the data over a period of time. I have an idea for a unit about a race or walk around Wyoming. I know that Excel could be useful in tracking the number part of it and even conversions. However, I need to get an interactive map to show the students’ progress in the “game”. This real world experience could help the students to see a relevant reason to get moving to stay healthy.
Being as I live in Wyoming I decided to try the Windward site. The site is a race around the world avoiding weather complications. This is truly what constructionism is. “The theory of learning that states people learn best when they build an external artifact something they can share with others” (Laureate Education 2009).
When students can create a connection with what they are trying to learn the student learns better. Teacher’s can help to create the connections that will take the student to the next level in education, success, and even life!
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Brittany Lundberg
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Britanny,
ReplyDeleteWouldn't it be great to have a couple computer stations right in the gym with you. I wonder if that would help you and your students with data collection. You gave me a really good idea to help me with our service learning project. Students are supposed to help raise money for the "Hope for the Warriors" group here at Camp Lejeune, NC. They raise money by getting donations for their miles walked/ran, so they could keep track of their pledges and possible money earned by using Excel, like you mentioned above, just without the interactive map. If we have a final goal for money we want to raise, then students might be motivated to complete more mileage. This connects to the inquiry method of "systems analysis" - as the number of miles increases, the total amount of money increases.
You are so right about us shaping the leaders of tomorrow. You never know who might be triggered by these meaningful learning experiences - an inventor, doctor, etc. We need to stimulate creativity in these 21st century learners who will need all the skills to be creative to solve these world-wide problems and be able to do it collaboratively with others around the world. We need our children to solve problems that we may not even realize exist yet.
Jennifer
Jennifer
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteOur school is also going to do a fundraiser in the spring like the one you mentioned. I would like it a lot if the fundraiser was not just about money but more about getting our student body moving.
As for the computer station, I do have an internet hook up in my gym. the problem is that the laptop that I use is old and slow. The administrator has this idea that I will break anything that she puts in the gym so I get the "leftovers." I am working on getting PTA to purchase me a Smartboard and a new laptop to run it. Hopefully I wil be successful in this area.
Thanks for your comments!
Brittany
BL