Constructivism in Practice

In this weeks resources there were many different methods that are useful in constructivism. One of the methods I explored this week was project based learning. Like the title suggest this method uses projects to help the students learn the information. This is directly linked to constructivism because the students are having to construct the project and they are having to construct the answers to the main question through research. Another method that I explored this week was wikis. These are created by the students directly. These are great examples of constructivism because again the students are having to construct the wiki. Not only are they providing the information they are also having to do the research to make sure the information is accurate.

Using Cognitive Tools to Enhance Learning Experiences

In chapter 6 and 8 of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works there are several strategies that align with the cognitive learning theories. One of the strategies used is the use of cues while questioning students. In the example the teacher would use an essential question to spark background knowledge(Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007, p. 78). This is characteristic of a cognitive learning theories because the teachers tries to build upon previous knowledge to make sure the information is storied in long-term memory. Another of the tools used in this chapter is the use of graphic organizers. This is linked to cognitive learning theories because again it is a way to organize information so that the brain can easily recall the information. Often students know the information but are not able to find it. The graphic organizer puts the information in a form that will maximize the frequency the student is able to recall information. Thomas Moore

References

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Skinner and Reinforcing Effort

In chapter 8 of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that works, is a rubric that students can use to show the correlation between effort and achievement. In this particular activity the students are the grade themselves on 5 different categories based on a rubric given to them to the teacher. This is connected to Skinner's behaviorist theory because it gives them a positive reinforcement for giving more effort. The information also acts as an immediate positive reinforcement of behavior. These are the reasons I believe the behaviorist theory connect with this weeks readings.