Monday, February 15, 2010

Blog Response - Watch this video and go to the corresponding article. First, give your overall impressions of this model of learning. Be observant of how the technology is used as a tool in this kindergarten classroom. What different applications or devices were utilized? What were some ways you saw the teachers using technology with their students? How did this support learning?

I think that this model of learning is very productive and beneficial when it is implemented in lower level classrooms. I feel that allowing the kids to participate in hands on activities is the best way for them to learn and initially get excited about learning. Using technology, such as smart boards, is beneficial for the younger kids because it is hands on learning. Kids at this age are more intrigued by activities in the classroom where learning is fun. However, this applies to all age levels. The more interesting the learning environment, the more focused and excited the students will be about learning.

The one device that I am somewhat familiar with is the smart board used in the classroom. I like the way that the teacher allowed the children to become involved in their own learning. The smart board is also a good way to introduce the material being taught, and at the same time, bring technology into the classroom.

The teacher in the classroom interviewed had the student realize the difference of the “b” and “d” shape by having the student drag one on top of another. At the end of the activity, the student realized the difference between the two letters.

This method of bringing in technology to get the student to physically manipulate the letters on the smart board was beneficial. This activity really hit home with the student because it was a hands on activity. By bringing in technology into the classroom it helped the students who had different learning styles. The student who couldn’t grasp the concept of the two letters being different, could after the teacher brought in technology into the classroom. This supported the learning environment of the classroom because different students in the class have different learning styles. Technology helped certain students grasp the concepts that the teacher presented to the class. In this case, technology was a successful learning tool.

1 comment:

  1. Jack,

    I love how you change your color font every week. I never know what I'm going to get when I open your blog. :)

    I really enjoyed this video as well. I thought it was a great demonstration of how technology can be used in a hands on method in the lower grades. Since you are familiar with the Smart board, can you think of possible of hands on applications of the Smart board for the upper grades? I think that all though the learning level is different, the need for some students to have a hands on experience may be needed at all grade levels. Smart boards can definitely assist those students.

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