Constructivism is a learning theory that states that a person constructs their own meaning based on circumstances. Constructionism states that people learn better if they are able to build something that they can share with others (Laureate, 2008). A constructionist classroom has the teacher act as a leader to guide students through their learning (Orey, 2001). Giving meaningful projects in class is a great way to incorporate the constructionist learning theory.
I have used webquests in my classes before. They provide students with the chance to be creative while still following clear guidelines. There is a numerous amount of quests on the internet. The important thing to remember when using quests is to make sure each link works and be prepared just in case one has a problem on the day of the assignment. The particular webquest I used had students create their own vacation. They had to figure the total cost of the trip including gas, hotel, food, tickets, spending money, and any other expenses. Students had a chance to be creative and then they presented their vacations to the class. Here are some websites that contain webquests for use in the math classroom.
http://www.meridian.wednet.edu/~dshick/webquest.htm
http://its.guilford.k12.nc.us/webquests/math.html
This website has webquests in all subjects and grades:
http://chalk.richmond.edu/education/projects/
Using a spreadsheet is also a way to allow students to generate and test hypothesis (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Making a hypothesis is another way students can create. They can then test their thoughts. In math, we use scatterplots to make predictions. Using a spreadsheet would allow students a chance to compare data and make predictions.
There are many different strategies a teacher can use in the classroom to allow students the chance to build or create. As long as the student is aware of what he/she is to learn in the lesson, the project has meaning. I cannot think of a better means to a project than using technology, a medium that so many students love.
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2008). Program seven. Constructionist and Constructivist Learning Theories [Motion picture]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Posts
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI really like your idea with the websuests and having students create their own webquest based on their vacation. I not only think that that was a good idea as far as using technology, but it also teaches math skills as well as life skills and financial responsibility. I also think that it allows the kids to think outside of the box and really own thieir thought process and engage in the material. Thank you for the idea and for the links.
-Jessica
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteGreat webquest sites! Next year, my school is departmentalizing the 4th grade and I am going to be teaching Math all day. I have been looking for all kinds of different math activities and ways to incorporate technology. As I was perusing the sites you listed above, I found many different ideas for next year!
Allison
Lisa,
ReplyDeleteI teach personal finance and I like your idea about planning a vacation. I had planned this one time before, but so many sites are blocked that it can be a hassle. However, it sounds like it works well for you so I will have to try it the next time I teach personal finance. I just hope the sites work well. Recently we got a new district wide filter, and I have not liked all the hassles. However, that is a part of the job being a business and computer technology teacher--I just wish I had more pull in the decision making process.
Kenny
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteOnce I started using webquests, I found they are very helpful in motivating students. I am glad I could help.
ReplyDeleteKenny,
We also have filters, that is why I have to test everything at school. If I find something at home, I have to make sure it will work at school before I present it to the class. It's a pain and there are many ideas that I have had to do away with because of this. We are getting a new system next year: new network,new email, and new grading program. It is called Powerschool and I am not at all familiar with it. I am keeping my fingers crossed hoping we will not have a lot of problems.
Lisa