Constructivism is a theory of learning that states people learn best when they build an external artifact or something they can share with others, (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). There are countless ways students can build or construct things using technology, and these creations can easily be shared with others.
For example, programs such as Power Point or Keynote can be used for just about any type of lesson. It is an easy way for students to use their knowledge to build something that can be shared with others. Most students enjoy sharing their creations, and students in the audience can learn by watching the presentations. Students can use these programs to make their presentations unique with the many choices that are available to them.
Another way that we can correlate technology with the principles of constructivist/constructionist learning theories, is by using teacher-created interactive spreadsheets. There are several programs that can be used for this, such as Microsoft Excel, Google Spreadsheets, and wikiCalc. When we think of spreadsheets, math and science usually come to mind. However, spreadsheets can be used for a variety of purposes in just about any subject.
One way that I try to make technology projects more accessible is by posting all of the components on my school website. There is a project category on my website that contains all of the projects for the school year. Under each project heading students will find directions, standards and benchmarks, rubrics, graphic organizers, and exemplar examples. When we begin a project students are instructed to go to my website and view all of the components as well as the examples. I give them printed copies of everything they need, but if they need another copy it is up to them to visit the website and print another one. Parents utilize this feature as well. They can view examples from home, which helps them to guide their child in the right direction if needed. Also, if a student forgets to bring home the directions, organizers, etc., then they can also be viewed or printed from home.
I enjoyed exploring the project-based learning resources. The Ali site is one that I have visited before, and even had one of my projects posted on their site several years ago. Our district uses Apple computers, so it is a site that we are encouraged to visit regularly. I plan to spend more time exploring all the other project-based sites.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). “Constructionist and Constructivist Learning Theories”. Baltimore: Dr. Orey
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I wish to move to a paperless classroom and have also tried to provide most of the class information online. I even toyed with delivering multiple-choice chapter tests via cellphone text. I want to be able to give students the opportunity to use their personal technology. I let my band students record playing tests on cell phone and message them to me for approval. I also want to find a way to integrate students own cellphones as movie cameras to create short films that they can create a musical score.
ReplyDeleteThere are many computer applications that can be used in all content areas to create projects and presentations. Since students learn from each other, they learn from each other's work. Oral communication is an important part of the 8th grade language arts standards, so my students are required to do some presentations throughout the school year. Many times they are just speaking in front of the class with a prompt or two. It is important to teach our students about all the available resources that they can use to deliver better presentations.
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ReplyDeleteSorry for the removed comment. When it posted, I saw a few typos! :)
ReplyDeleteI think the more we explore project based learning, the more our students become involved in team work as well as presentation skills. I see with my students that many of them have trouble speaking in front of the class as well as written expression. With project based learning, students can and will learn from each other, which is a good thing!
Toni,
ReplyDeleteI agree that oral communication is very important. I teach 8th grade language arts and I require my students to give several presentations throughout the year. They also receive points on the rubric for their listening skills as others are presenting, which is also one of our standards. It's a win-win situation, students practice their speaking and listening skills while learning through others' presentations.
Ms. F.J. Bradley,
ReplyDeleteTeam work is very important, and it's a great way to practice speaking and listening skills. Project-based learning is an excellent way for students to work as a team. Sometimes my students work with a partner or a group, and other times they work alone. Some students prefer to work with others, but there are also students who prefer to work alone. So doing both is important.
Todd,
ReplyDeleteWow! It sounds like you are advanced in the use of cell phones! I do not know how to do any of that with my own phone, let alone asking students to do it. How did you learn how to do all of that? I know how attached my 8th graders are to their cell phones, so I'm sure they would love to use them for assignments!