Educators that believe in technology integration and use it on a regular basis may not realize it, but they are practicing the constructivist theory. Technology tends to encourage students to take control of their learning and to explore worlds outside of the classroom especially since the invention of the Internet. The constructivist theory focuses " on the learner rather than the teacher. It is the learner who interacts with his or her environment and thus gains an understanding of its features and characteristics. The learner constructs his own conceptualisations and finds his own solutions to problems, mastering autonomy and independence" (Thanasoulas, 2009). Emergent technologies like collaborative software and student response systems are examples of the types of tools used that engage students and encourage them to take a more active role in their learning. These technologies allow students that would not normally participate in class discussions to have a voice. They are able to 'come out of their shells' and ask questions and/or work on group projects without ever having to be seen. However, they are still learning and able to do so at their own pace and on their own terms.
References:
Thanasoulas, D. (2009). Constructivist learning. Retrieved March 12, 2oo9 from http://www.seasite.niu.edu/Tagalog/Teachers_Page/Language_Learning_Articles/constructivist_learning.htm
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ReplyDeleteHi, Tracee,
ReplyDeleteWhile I agree that there are technology tools that facilitate constructivist practices, I think a lot of the criticisms of technology use in education are based upon the fact that too many educators are stuck in a routine that relegates technology to low-level, drill-and-kill, or basic research practices. An example would be a teacher taking kids to a lab, having them research a particular topic on the Internet, then creating a report on paper or a PowerPoint presentation on the topic. We need to move forward in education, so that the power of the technology is not stifled. This means more enlightened filtering policies, less focus on low-level, basic skills, and a greater emphasis on global collaboration, problem-solving, creativity, etc. What do you think?
Hello Tracee,
ReplyDeleteTechnology infused teaching should ideally be more student-centered than not. At the moment, my district is considering 1:1 laptops in the high schools. Unfortunately, one of the problems holding them back is that the technology department believes that they may become glorified notebooks. This may be the case as well for many teachers if the proper training is not in place. I have been in my school for two years and despite offering many in-services and training teachers in many different areas on how to effectively integrate educational technology, most teachers still think that good use of technology is research, typing, and PowerPoint. I hope that we can change this.
Jason Bedell
Hello Tracee:
ReplyDeleteI agree with your assessment on technology integration and its connection to constructivism. According to Herrington & Kerwin (2007) Instructors should not use technology as a substitute for instruction but rather to enrich instruction and students’ learning experiences.
Their study also supports implementing technology to promote authentic learning. Authentic learning allows students to transfer skills into a real-life setting. Students are likely to be interested whenever they can connect classroom instruction to their career plans; therefore, the learning environment is rewarding for both instructor and pupils.
Herrington, J., Kervin, L., (2007). Authentic learning supported by technology: Ten suggestions and cases of integration in classrooms. Educational Media International, 44 (3), 219-236.
Valeria Shanks
Hi Tracee. The idea of constructing one's own educational experiences reminds me of a Montessori experience where students learn at their own pace. The idea that this type of learning will become our future is awesome. When exploring some of the 2020 ideas and samples found in the coursework resources, it seems far fetched at times. I am hopeful that students in the future will be able to use advanced technology to explore the knowledge they are interested in and become self-motivated to learn more from what technology can offer.
ReplyDeleteReference:
Department of Commerce. (2002). Vision 2020: Transforming education and training through advanced technologies. Washington, DC: U S Department of Education.