Since I am a high school science teacher, formulating hypotheses, drawing conclusions, and providing support for a stance taken, is the norm within my classroom. I try to utilize data collection tools such as motion sensors, pH sensors, as well as graphs produced from excel spreadsheet data (Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. 2007). Just as Dr. Orey stated in the Laureate DVD, the constructionist approach allows the learner to build external artifacts and can share then with others. The different resources mentioned this week are not just great constructionist strategies but excellent teaching practices. Those mentioned previously are common practice in the lab and I am trying to make this the norm within my classroom itself. I believe that allowing the students to construct and take ownership of their projects/assignments allows for student’s to use higher level thinking skills and creates a more rigorous and relevant curriculum.
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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Mrs. C,
ReplyDeleteDo you have state/local assessments that are project based? A district I was in a few years ago develped BOE's (body of evidence) that were project based. It seemed like the students enjoyed BOE's much more than standardized assessments, which is easy to understand.
Travis
It sounds like you are doing an excellent job of incorporating constructivism in your classroom. Your students must be benefiting a great deal from your excellent teaching strategies.
ReplyDeleteTravis~
ReplyDeleteI teach in a Catholic school so we do not have any specific assessments that must be issued. However, my science standards match up well with the PA State and my students take standardized tests called Terra Nova Tests. All of the students at the high school I teach at, also take the PSAT's from the time they are freshman thru their junior year.
With all of that being said, the Archdioceses of Philadelphia does want us to have project based assessments as well as ones that integrate technology and Web 2.0 tools.
M. Elias~
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the props!!
~Michele
I am sure your students learn so much from that. It sounds like you are using a lot of constructivist methods. The more hands on they can do, the more they will learn!
ReplyDeletedef aca bbu~
ReplyDeleteThanks! I try to keep it as hands on as much as possible. They learn so much more and have a great time in the process.
~Michele.
Science is great way to incorporate constructivist ideals. As a first grade teacher responsible for all subject areas, I find science as the easiet subject area for students to participate in inquiry-based activities. It seems you are doing a great job of developing and facilitating activities that are meaningful. Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteJen~
ReplyDeleteThanks!
It defiantly is the easiest. When I taught grade school, I had a self contained 6th grade class. I found that the more hands on I made class and the more cross curricular connections I made the more information was retained. It was much easier since I did have them all day and could give more time for a specific subject or project when needed. Are you allowed to extend time for one subject if needed?
~Michele