Apr
21
Constructionism vs. Instructionism
April 21, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I recently read the transcript of a speech given by Seymour Papert via video conference to educators in Japan. In his speech he discusses the difference between constructionism and instructionism, stating that technology can enhance the way children learn, rather than simply enhancing teacher instruction. He relates this to children learning mathematics at school. Learning for children (especially [...]
Apr
11
Stuffing Technology!
April 11, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I recently read an interesting article by Jamie McKenzie entitled Stuffing Technology into the Curriculum. It discusses how in recent years with technological development, many teachers have ’stuffed’ technology use into the curriculum, rather than using it effectively and naturally.
I found this a very interesting point, especially as i can see myself being a victim [...]
Apr
10
Metaphor for Learning
April 10, 2008 | Leave a Comment
In class yesterday, Matthew asked us to come up with our own metaphor for learning and express this with pictures. I worked with my partner Alex, and we came up with the idea that learning is like growing a garden. The gardener (teacher) must nurture and care for her plants (students) and accommodate for their [...]
Apr
10
Seize the Moment!
April 10, 2008 | 1 Comment
I just read a really interesting article by Idit Harel titled Sandcastles Go Digital. It discusses the importance of ‘the teachable moment’ in which children are highly engaged in an activity, and are therefore more likely to learn. This theory of constructivist learning is based around the idea that children learn best when they are [...]
Apr
8
Technology – help or hinder??
April 8, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I recently came across some interesting cartoons in Bridie’s blog which comment on the use of technology in the classroom.
I found them interesting, because admist all the talk of the benefits of technology in education, perhaps we are overlooking what an over-reliance on this technology will do to children’s basic skills. The cartoons, whilst intended [...]
Apr
6
The Gaming Generation…
April 6, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Today i came across some interesting points raised in Alex’s blog about the use of computer games in the classroom environment, related to my previous blog on Games for Engagement.
I found some of the points raised quite surprising, including that the use of these games requires a combination of many skills including hand-eye coordination, the management [...]
