For this week's instructional strategy that uses technology, to generate and test a hypothesis is to be connected with the theory of constructivist/ constructionist learning. When students generate and test a hypothesis, they are engaging in complex mental processes, applying context knowledge like facts and vocabulary, and enhancing their overall understanding of the content. (Pitler, H., Hubble, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. 2007).
In our resource section this week, we were asked to explore some of the project-based learning tools available. Some that I found interesting gave a tour of the solar system and how to design a planet. Another site showed students testing wing designs and discussing their findings with engineers. These experiences are so powerful in learning something new.
According to Pitler, Hubble, Kuhn, & Malenoski (2007), "Technology can play a vital role in generating and testing hypothesis because new development in probeware and interactive applets allow students to spend more time interpreting the data rather than gathering the data, a process that can be tedious and error prone." This year in my Science classroom, we received three hand held computing devices that can measure temperature and voltage. These devices quickly collect and display data on a small screen. Hopefully, next year we will be able to purchase additional probeware to measure sound, light and weather. This type of interactive equipment will certainly give the student more time to think on more complex issues and problem solving.
Pitler, H., Hubble, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Frank, the computing devices that can measure voltage and temperature seem very exciting to use. Probeware along with simulations makes the content that much more exciting. Those students using the simulation software not only recorded higher test scores but also-and perhaps more importantly-showed overwhelming enthusiasm while learning the material (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).
ReplyDeleteI would love to create interactive virtual world activities for my students much like this site but loaded with the specific content that I am teaching them. I would like to make a site like this one: http://www.wonderville.ca/v2/3d_world/index.htm and insert the content I want my students to learn.
It is so important to infuse technology into as much as possible in the classroom as this is what the students enjoy learning with. Technology will become a part of our student’s everyday lives, if it hasn’t already. Why not make it a part of their everyday lessons in the classroom?
Works Cited
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using Technology with Classroom Instruction That Works. Denver: Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning (McREL).