Constructivism/Constructionism in Practice
Chapter 11: Generating and Testing Hypotheses
Dr. Orey states that constructionism is “a theory of learning that states people learn best when they build an external artifact or something they can share with others.” (DVD) With constructionism the teacher is the guide to help along the way but the students are the ones that are in charge of their learning. They then become the teachers when they present their finished project.
In chapter 11, they talked about students using spreadsheets, data collecting tools, web resources and gaming software with students to create hands on experiences. These are good examples of the constructionism theory because they are a way for a student to create or build their learning. Technology is hands on and students are able to create a finish project.
My students would be really interesting in the gaming software. They are highly motivated by video games and it would make a really interesting PBL unit.
The Project Based Learning web site is a great jumping off point when making a PBL unit. This website is for making middle and high school PBL units but I plan on seeing if I use it to make elementary PBL units for my students. I spend a lot of time making the units on my own I was excited to see a site with a format that I can follow.
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My students are also very excited and motivated by interactive games and activities on the computer. I have found many great interactive websites which my students use and they are always asking me to write down the websites so that they can use them at home! I find that student participation increases when there are hands-on learning components to lessons. Students are more motivated and excited which leads to participation and greater retention. What subjects do you currently teach? I know that creating units from scratch is time-consuming and any websites which will assist with that is helpful.
ReplyDeleteResponse to Danika
ReplyDeleteVideo game type educational technology is great! I use the computer program cd Jumpstart Artist with my students that teaches and applies concepts and they love it! Jumpstart makes all types of educational video game type software for baby through grade 6 I believe.
I use Project Base Learning. My students enjoy learning independently. Teaching computer application has many advances in using technology base learning such as PBL.
ReplyDeleteWe use Alphabetic Keyboard. It has a video games and other learning resources to advance the students.