Chapter 7 Problem Solving and Inquiry Learning with Software and Web Tools
Focus Question #2 How can teachers evaluate the different types of educational software available today?
Teachers have to find out if the computer controls the activity, or if the student does. It is the students working and doing the assignment, not the computer; they control what they do. Also, they have to ensure the software favors long- term thinking as opposed to the student rushing through the activity. Students will learn and remember more when they actually think about what they are doing. The point is for the students to develop reasoning and start analyzing the material they learn. Also, any online activity should not promote violence, competition, or stereotyping because it can affect students personally. Competition makes students run through their work and try to finish first, they do not learn anything that way. Due to the excitement in online activities, students can use what they learn online and use it in the real world.Violence and stereotyping is not good for the real world.
Photo Credit to San Jose Library on Flickr
Tech Tool 7.2
Zoombinis Logical Journey is an online game that teaches math solving problems and techniques. It is a game where students are given the chance to try and try, even if they got a question wrong. The point of the game is to help the Zoombinis get home by beating their obstacles, the math problems so they are involved in something they enjoy. Students will not get easily bored when they they playing a game so this is a good way to help them learn. As they continue to play this online game, they will remember the techniques they use and be able to use them outside of the game. Also, students can play together and interact as a group.
Connection and Summary
This chapter provided a lot of examples and websites that make being a teacher easier. There are software and Web Tools all over the Internet that I can use to make learning fun, which is one of my main goals in teaching. Chapter 7 included different ways to discern the accountability of websites as well as described the purposes to use them. It also described ways on how to use these websites in lessons, and when too much or too little technology can occur. I learned a lot and now realize, even more than before, that even though I am not good at using the computer, this book has many outlets and helpful tips that will make me a good educator.
Resources
Maloy, R. W., Verock-O, R. E., Edwards, S. A., & Woolf, B. P. (2010).Transforming learning with new technologies. Allyn & Bacon.
From the technical side, great hyperlinking and inclusion of resource book. Your observations are "right on" - great job! There's much to explore but the gaming aspect will likely increase in a variety by the time you get to teaching. :) You selected a relevant photo, as well.
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