Dr. Orey stated that constructionism is "A theory of learning that states people learn when they build an external artifact or something they can share with others." Students are active in their learning and learning is student centered. The teacher acts as facilitator. In our supplemental reading, Innovative Learning: Constructivist Theories of Learning, it states that students learn through their own discoveries.
The instructional strategies we learned this week are Generating and Testing Hypotheses. Technology has made it possible for students to "learn through their own discoveries" by using spreadsheet software, data collection tools, and web resources. In each of these, students are making decisions, problem solving, makes hypotheses, collaborating, and is involved in authentic tasks. Students are 'building" something and are active in their learning. The instructional strategies all contain components of constructionism.
Teachers are there to facilitate these authentic projects. In my experience, students would rather "create" something using technology. It is enjoyable for them, and the projects keeps them interested. Our students are 21st century learners. With that being said, teachers have to take that into consideration and continue to support and encourage our students by offering them the opportunity to use technology as a tool to support their learning. Problem solving, collaboration, making decisions, etc. are all 21st century skills that our students must master in order to be prepared for today's workforce.
Reflection
13 years ago
Posts
Carol,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that students prefer using technology to create projects. However, it can be frustrating when told to use a tech tool that they do not understand or know how to function properly. Yes, schools should encourage students by offering the opportunity use technology, but also they should encourage them by equipping students with the skills to operate them. Thanks for the nice post.
Jennifer Pak
Hi Carol,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you. My students definitely prefer creating artifacts using technology. I usually get much better quality work from my students when the assignments incorporate technology. Nice post!
Hello Melinda! Thank you so much for the feedback!
ReplyDeleteHello Jennifer! I totally agree with you in regard to schools teaching students the skills needed to successfully operate the technology being used. I think that is where we come in. As a first grade teacher, I have exposed my students to many things as I further my own learning. I assigned a project using ReadWrite Thinking Press. They have never made their own newspaper or brochure, but I was there every step of the way to facilitate. They learned something new, enjoyed themselves, and used 21st century skills. If a district has the technology, and if teachers are there to facilitate, I think students have a greater chance at being successful. Thank you so much for your feedback!
ReplyDeleteHello Carol~
ReplyDeleteGreat Post! The strategies learned this week were informative and useful in order to understand how students are learning through self discovery. I do agree with your comment about students creating artifacts through technology. They are excited, motivated, and driven to explore their learning projects. It is important to bring technology to our students' in order to be ready and prepared for the future in their world.
Hanna
I have my students use laptops all the time to create final projects. Not much is hand written and handed in anymore. They become more interested in making their work the best that it can be, and the use of technology is the main motivator!
ReplyDeleteCarol,
ReplyDeleteThank you for the additional comment. Your class must had a blast on seeing their final piece, and they would have had your support since you were there for them on every step.
Kudos!