Dr. Michael Orey defines constructivism as "a theory of knowledge stating that each individual actively constructs his/her own meaning" (Laureate Education, Inc., 2009). In the readings this week, we were introduced to many strategies that provide students with ways to meet the requirements defined as constructivism. The key to constructivism is that each student must gear what they are learning in such a way that he or she connects with it to find meaning. Teachers should instruct the students in such a way as to find meaning, in order to remember the subject matter. A perfect example of this was found on page 210 of Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. Mrs. Schwartz turned her students concern for the community into a teaching moment by having her class collect data regarding acid rain. The classes collected samples from the local water supplies and tested pH levels in order to determine the acidity level of the water the community was being exposed to. Mrs. Schwartz took what is an important standard and gave the students a reason to learn and remember.
Resources
Pitler, Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I think music and art teachers in this class are going "yeah, we know this works, we use it every day." I know I am. Granted, a trumpet or saxophone is not the most impressive piece of technology, but it is still a way for students to actively apply their instrucion into a useful and connected application. I ask my music students to do this every day. Here's the music, let start at the beginning and let's see if we can make it tell a story. Maybe that's why my students do so well with projects in other classes. They are already self-motivated to learn and express themselves through other artistic means.
ReplyDeleteHi Raymond,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that teachers should instruct students in such away to find meaning. When the student sees the importance of something and how it relates to their life, they do connect to it. I have many students who are so engaged with computers that they get a thrill out of any project we do in class. They even ask to come to my class to do assignments for other teachers, so that they can present their work in a different manner. It is good when students are self-motivated!
Raymond,
ReplyDeleteI agree as well. In my literature class, I use essential questions to connect students' prior knowledge to new literature. This helps me to see what they know and how to connect new information. Students love creating and completing anticipation guides or finding articles that connect real-world meaning to the literature we are reading.
Ginger
Hi Todd,
ReplyDeleteWhat you describe is exactly why I got involved in music and in music education. But, I think I lost my direction. I became so focused on the students learning the "how to", that I forgot to show them the "why".
Ray Rust
Hi Farena,
ReplyDeleteThat is great to hear. I wish I had more students like that. The students at my school this year are just not motivated to do anything, fun or not. I have heard that comment from many other teachers as well.
Ray Rust
Hi Ginger,
ReplyDeleteWhat you are doing sounds interesting. Have you ever had the students write stories about their own lives to try and connect?
Ray Rust
I'm glad you mentioned the acid rain project. I just found out that one of my project proposals has been funded for next year. The recent drought has affected many of our students' families who depend on well water. Students in middle school are not usually very concerned about whether other people around the world have enough safe drinking water. They tend to be more self-centered. So when the idea that safe drinking water is not a limitless resource strikes home, it is a perfect time to get them involved in an issue with global implications. I wish that more teachers would adopt a project or problem-based curriculum so that all students can develop their problem-solving skills.
ReplyDeleteRaymond,
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure what has happened to our students this year. I have a few too that have not been motivated since day one of class. I tried so many ways to motivate them to participate in class, study, etc. One particular student that was this way finally decided last week after seeing their final grade for my class that she was ready to do better. A little too late don't you think? There are only 3 1/2 days left in school. I told her that I'm glad that she is now motivated to do better. What she needs to do now is keep that same attitude and apply it to her summer school lessons as well as for next school year.