In this week's learning resources, Orey (2008) observes that constructionism is attained when students build something, not necessarily out of brick and mortar, but a tangible learning source for themselves and others. Many project types were suggested in his segment, particularly powerpoint type presentations which make clear connection to information through text, images and sound. Pitler et al. (2007) describe the constructivist classroom as one where technology allows for more efficient differentiation in instruction and collaboration. Some of the ideas they mention this week are use of technology for the collection of data. This data can be used, as they demonstrate, for testing hypotheses. Sometimes this data can be helpful in determining what to study further and what needs to be changed to help further learning and achievement.
The ideas presented this week in the learning resources correlate to the principles outlined in the constructionist/constructivist theories through the use of technology. By using spreadsheet or presentation software, numerical data can be translated to visual images for interpretation by the receiver of information. As a result, more people can understand and assimilate data more effectively.
-Stephen St. Georges
References:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008). Constructionist and constructivist learning theories. Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology [Educational video]. Baltimore: Orey, M.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Stephen,
ReplyDeleteWith the use of spreadsheets and other data collection tools, do you see the similarities to the behaviorism theory as well? I think all of the theories correlate with one another. I think we can take any classroom tool and relate it to all of the theories in one way or another. What is your opinion of this?
Stephanie Coultrip
Stephen
ReplyDeleteI agree theat using spreadsheets and other such software can make it easier for others to understand the data that is presented. How can you used it in music? I can see how programs such as power point would be useful but having played instruments for most of my life I can not see how using spreadsheet would be useful to you.
Rachael Threadgill
Stephanie and Rachael,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments - spreadsheets, of course, make data easier to understand and can be linked to any of the theories we have studied so far. As far as its usefulness to a performance ensemble, I would agree that it would be limited, but for a music theory course or something more analytical in nature, it would have more potential.
-Stephen