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The constructionism theory states that students who are actively engaged in learning and later build an artifact which they will share with others are forming ideas during this learning process (Orey, 2001). Therefore, when students are generating and testing hypotheses, they are engaging in higher level thinking. This is great because it is not the regular pencil and paper activities. These students are also doing hands on activities when they collect data and then analyze it. During the analyzing of data, the students can then use technology to aid them during their search for answers. A great example of technology assisting students is the usage of a spreadsheet software. In this instance, students get a chance to “manipulate the spreadsheet, consider graphical patterns, and test their predictions by receiving quick feedback on multiple scenarios” (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007).
Although the students will not be creating the spreadsheet themselves, they are still actively engaged in adding data and then deciphering the results. Basically, students did learn if they can later produce an artifact that they have created after they were taught a new concept
References
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Hey Denise, you bring up a really great point in paragraph 2 about the importance of kids interpreting the data in spreadsheets. I think it's okay when we already give them the data as filling that in is very tedious and it doesn't require higher order thinking skills.
ReplyDeleteBy deviating away from "old school" pencil and paper teaching while embracing and utilizing constructionist strategies, students are more motivated and actively engaged in their learning. I have often heard, even from my own kids, how boring school is when all they do read and write answers to questions, but when they are involved in hands-on activities they are excited, engaged and very enthusiastic. Adding in technology, they seem to euphoric about their learning. So I can see the benefit of incorporating technology and constructionist theories into the classroom, not only as a way to facilitate higher order thinking skills, but also as a way to create motivation, higher self-esteem (as students are able to express their learning in a way that suits their learning style) and pride in their work and learning.
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