This week we read about the Constructivist Learning theory and how knowledge is unique to the individual who constructs it. For constructivists, knowledge is a constructed element resulting from the learning process ((Lever-Duffy & McDonald, 2008). We also read about generating and testing hypotheses in Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). This strategy really fits under the Constructivist theory since students are problem solving, questioning, and testing information to build an artifact of what they have learned. By using technology, the students can spend more time interpreting the data rather than gathering the data (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007).
Project-Based Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that engages learners in complex activities (Hans and Bhattacharya, 2001). Students are guided to solve authentic problems, collaborate with others, and create and design a presentation of their findings. In project-based learning, students are encouraged to use technology to gather and test their hypotheses. This instructional strategy correlates to the Constructivist Theory as it encourages students to build their own meaning and construct their learning by the progression through the project.
Han, S., and Bhattacharya, K. (2001). Constructionism, Learning by Design, and Project Based Learning. In M. Orey (Ed.), Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved November 23, 2009 from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Lever-Duffy, J., & McDonald, J. B. (2008). Theoretical Foundations. In Teaching and Learning with Technology, Third Edition. Boston, MA, USA: Pearson Custom Publishing.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. (J. Houtz, Ed.) Alexandria, VA, USA: ASCD.
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With second graders, have you had the opportunity to create some project-based learning activities? I have tried a few projects and the students really become absorbed in the activity. Project-based learning projects can encompass many areas of curriculum instruction at one time. It also can bring relevancy to the individual learner, thus making the learner more interested and vested in the project. I believe that project-based learning is a very powerful tool that educators need to utilize more.
ReplyDeleteCWarren
Caroline,
ReplyDeleteI have not used any project-based learning in my classroom yet. What have you used in your classroom? I think PBL can be very engaging but I still have not decided on how to bring real world problems to my second graders. Do you have any suggestions?
Thanks,
Kerry
You made some really great points about Project Based Learning. I think the great thing about PBL is the development of the 21st century skills. It gives students the opportunities to communicate and develop ideas. I teach second grade too and sometimes it seems like a project based project would be a little much. I was thinking about working with our tech teacher to incorporate research reports and digital stories. I let you know if that works out for me!
ReplyDeleteKatie,
ReplyDeleteYou are lucky to have a tech teacher. We get to go to the computer lab only once a week for our Math games and maybe, one other time if it is not booked. I have to do all the tech stuff myself. I am looking into doing a Christmas Around the World webquest. I hope that we can get some time on the computers!
I agree with you that PBL is more difficult to incorporate at the younger grades but it is worth the effort. I usually teach a unit on dinosaurs and at the end, the students build a dinosaur from found items. They LOVE it. They have to plan all the details like what kind of dinosaur, what materials to use, and who will bring them in. Then I have parents come in for one day to help us build. It really helps with collaboration, communication, and cooperation! Of course, we write about it also! Maybe this year we will make a voicethread about our dinosaurs!
Good luck!
Kerry