The Constructivist Learning Theory states that one creates or constructs their own knowledge and makes meaning from that knowledge (Lever-Duffy, McDonald, 2008). Technology aides in this theory because it allows learners to explore, make connections and promote higher level thinking. While this theory allows for more student independence, it may require a great deal of monitoring depending on the student or group.
Different
project, problem or inquiry based learning that is supported by technology
allows students to work over a period of time, developing their knowledge and
allowing them to make more meaning. We just started using a wiki in my third
grade class. I love that students may come back to their work and add
information to what they already have posted. This is especially beneficial for
students that are high achievers or needing to be challenged. I have also
started using more student focused rubrics and rubric created with the help of
the students.
I would like
to use more spreadsheets in my class. I
believe that they are a beneficial learning tool for students and one that they
can continue to use throughout their life.
I am slightly intimidated by Excel, so I feel that I must learn how to
use it better before I try to instruct my students. I am currently teaching a data unit in math
and I think this would be a perfect opportunity for my third grade students to
try out excel, even if it is a simple spreadsheet. This will be my goal over the next few weeks!
References:
Lever-Duffy, J., & McDonald, J. (2008). Theoretical
foundations (Laureate Education, Inc., custom ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson
Education, Inc.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn,
M.,& Malenoski, K. (2007). Using Technology with Classroom Instruction
that Works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
It sounds like you are doing some great things in your third grade classroom. My daughter is in second grade and she recently came home with a spreadsheet that she had created in order to predict and chart the different marshmallows in a cup of Lucky Charms. The students then graphed their conclusions. It was a math project, obviously, but I thought it was great that the teacher had incorporated the spreadsheet as a tool. Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteYou are doing a wonderful job! You seem to be teaching the Third grade many different modalities and they will remember this in the future.Your difficulty with learning Excel is something that I may self have had problems with and still am learning more each time I have a different class, because the students seem to know more about it than me at times. You will get it and learning along with your students is great, because they can see you are just as human as they are. Great discussion. J. Kitchell
ReplyDeleteWow, Lucky Charm spreadsheets! Way more fun than made up surveys like we've been doing. I guess I'll head to the store. I will tackle Excel and learn with the kids. I know I have a couple that will be able to help me!
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