Dr. Michael Orey explained the difference between constructivism and constructionism in the dvd this week. Constructionist learning theories are important in the classroom because they help students make connections between the lesson and the real world. I like to use project-based learning and Interact simulations in my classroom. Students have fun while learning and produce a product to demonstrate their knowledge. I have bookmarked all of the resources this week and plan to explore them fully during the summer. Creating power point presentations and using Microsoft Word to make books and papers are examples of technology based projects.
I have taught students how to test a hypothesis to create a Science Fair Project, but never realized that the simulations I have used are similar. I plan to incorporate the Plimoth Plantation web site into my Pilgrim simulation next year.
Resources
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program four. Behaviorist Learning Theory [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore: Author
Personally, I like how you used the word 'fun' while describing your students' learning. It seemed in the past I was told to never use the word 'fun' when describing a lesson. I am assuming it is because they would relate it to a game and that it would not be 'educational', but I do not agree with that!
ReplyDeleteI think learning should be fun! It should be something that everyone wants to do. Naturally, as humans, if we do not like to do something, or if it bores us, we do not put much effort into it, and we don't care to do it. I feel with project-based learning, we are giving our students the opportunity to enjoy learning and to have fun! To make them want to learn!
Debbie:
ReplyDeleteThanks for providing the website on the First Thanksgiving. Had I not visited your blog I may not have checked out that particular site. It is really "fun". I would actually use this with 6th graders just to offer exciting interaction. There are many facts to offer even teachers who think they know all there is to know about the first Thanksgiving.
Linda V
Leah,
ReplyDeleteAs we learned in the Classroom Management class, engaged students do better in school. What better way to engage students than to make it fun to learn?
Debbie
Linda,
I have been teaching about the Pilgrims for years and I found new information on this site. I like how this site can be used by students at both elementary and middle school.
Debbie
I agree! Best of luck as you round up the last few days of school =)
ReplyDeleteI have used the Plimoth Plantation simulation with my students. They really enjoyed the website and learned a lot from the audio and graphics. I used it in a whole group setting. Next year, I plan to use it during computer lab time and have my students create a project from the information they learned on the website.
ReplyDeleteAshley
Ashley,
ReplyDeleteSince I just discovered the web site, I plan to use it whole class next year and then branch off into other activities. I really think it will add to the Pilgrim Interact simulation I already use every year.
Debbie