Constructivism in Practice –Week 4

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.