Constructivism in Practice
My understanding of the constructionist learning theory is that students discover new knowledge and connect it to what they already know. Dr. Orey (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009) stated, “You need to have experience in order to understand.” Students can make meaning of new information by creating projects in order to obtain a deeper knowledge of the subjects they are studying. The resources this week show a correlation to this theory. In generating and testing hypothesis, the students are creating questions to help them further understand a topic and develop ways in which to get those answers. They are then creating “investigations” or “projects” to obtain results.
One particular website that I would like to peruse a little further is “By Kids for Kids: How to Invent.” This will be a great website for me to use when we begin to read a selection in our anthology. I am thinking of using it as an introduction to the selection to get the students motivated. I could create a concept map about inventions to determine what inventions/inventors my students are already aware of. From there, we could read the selection and then as a culminating activity I could have the students work with a buddy to design an invention of their own. By doing this, the students will need to make the connection that an invention is designed to make something easier or to improve life. From there, they can develop a project that has not been created yet. By engaging in this activity, the students will gain a deeper meaning of inventions and understand that creating inventions require careful and detailed thoughts. I think the students will really enjoy it. Does anyone have any other suggestions for how I can implement this particular website?
I have attached a website on project based learning. It actually is a website in which you can create assessment checklists based on certain subjects. I think it might be a useful tool. http://pblchecklist.4teachers.org/
Reference
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Program seven. Constructionist and Constructivist Learning Theories [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore: Author.
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Meghan,
ReplyDeleteI looked at the BKFK website and found it very informative for inventions. My favorite part was the biographies on the inventors. I think these biographies could be used as motivation for our students. They need to see that kids, their age, are able to create and develop interesting projects! Some of my students have the, "I can't do it; I'm just a kid" mentality. This website is a great tool to show them what they CAN do! I am a math teacher, so I would take these inventions about talk about the design elements and how they relate to math (measuring, demensions shapes, etc.).
Thanks for the website! Such a great tool!
Jennifer
Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteI was impressed with the website as well. I will agree with you in that students don't believe that they can create something unique and useful for others. Since my students are only 9 or 10 years old, that's how they think. There are a few students who have that "I believe, therefore, I can" attitude. I try to encourage students to use their creativity and explore all their endless options. I remember when I was young, I played soccer for a travel team. My coach always told us that we were never to use the words "I can't." He said that these words meant "I won't." That obviously stuck with me through my life and I try to reinforce this idea in my classroom as well.
Meghan
I think this is a great idea! I have done something similar when studying the Olympics and ancient Greece with my seventh graders. We spent some time talking about how they came about, some of the first events, the first type of sun tan lotion used (olive oil!), why they came about and how it relates to the Olympics of today. At the end, I have them work with a partner or two, no more, and they have to come up with their own Olympic event. It can not be an existing one, however, they may modify an existing one. Then, I have the answer a series of question on a form I created that explains their new sport. (Rules/Regs, how its scored, equipment needed, etc. ) Then they make a presentation to the class with some type of visual showing their sport. It was a huge hit! I even asked if I could keep some of their posters to show to future students and they also thought that was great. We even put them up in the hallway so everyone could see! SO, long story short, I love the invention idea! They also retain more what they learned by taking an active roll in the creation of a new sport.
ReplyDeleteMike,
ReplyDeleteYour Olympics idea is great! It is the perfect time of year to use it again since the Winter ones are beginning soon. You gave me more ideas to incorporate. We are going to have to do some background knowledge on inventions and maybe even discuss ways in which life would be different without specific inventions that we have today(light bulb). I appreciate your thoughts and ideas. I am excited to try this out! I think the kids will really enjoy themselves.
Meghan
Meghan,
ReplyDeleteThe BKFK site that you mentioned looks like a great site to use to get students involved in building or creating something. This is what constructionism and constructivism is all about! This site looks exciting and inviting for students. Inventing is also a great way for students to build their creativity.
Thanks for sharing!
Amber Barrett