I feel that Constructionist/project based activities are the best ways to incorporate true life experiences and learning in the classroom. For world language teachers like me, the Internet has opened up an entire world for our students to truly visit and be a part of the culture that we are trying to teach. Whether the student is creating commercials using software that is readily available, or creating a PowerPoint presentation, project based learning allows the student to actually create and learn at the same time.
I think that the most important thing for teachers who plan to use project based, or a more constructionist approach in their classroom is to keep the objectives and the tasks of their projects clear and easily understood. I also think that the teacher should show examples of what they are expecting from their students and allow plenty of time for creating and collaboration (if students are working in pairs or groups).
Teachers who use this type of approach in their classrooms become a guide for students. They should have a clear idea of what the student can accomplish and the types of tech problems that can be expected. Always have a plan "B" ready just in case.
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I really like the idea of creating commercials. This helped me think about all the possible ways videos could be used in the classroom. For example, science projects are difficult to bring into the classroom at times. Therefore, students could test a hypothesis at home through an experiment and record it for the classroom to view and then later discuss.
ReplyDeleteI do agree that an important rule when allowing students to keep directions and guidelines clear for students to follow. I agree that it really helps when teachers provide examples to students of what they are asking as it will help in their completion of a task.
ReplyDeleteI also like the idea of a Plan B in mind!
Christine
Jeremy,
ReplyDeleteGood way of using video. Nice idea.
Laura