Kathleen Chachich
UMBC
MD

The Constructivist Learning Model

Wed, Oct 19, 2011 12:06 PM
Learning to Learn

This article speaks to the fact that currently our teaching methods are based around a behavioristic approach. Yager tells his reader that we can better educate our students using a constructivist approach. He also states that it may not be a total change from current practices, more so a shift in emphasis. Many excellent teachers already employ many constructivist techniques in their classrooms. Yager gave some great ways to use the constructivist-learning model in the classroom. Some of my favorite methods include asking open-ended questions, using student questions to guide learning, and encouraging students to question each other and sources. Something that I think I would need to keep in mind is to give enough time for reflection. Collaboration, and individuality are respected in this method and are essential skills for students to learn. It will serve them well in years to come. From this article I think that it is extremely important to give students an active role in their learning as well as make them feel like they have the power to take charge of their learning in and outside of the classroom. The constructivist approach goes far beyond teaching for the test in which students are not prepared for much more than regurgitating information. If used properly the students will really learn as well as be able to use what they have learned out side the context of the one situation.

Tried and True: Solar System in the Hallway

Wed, Oct 19, 2011 10:16 AM
Good activity for students to Visualize

This activity is geared towards middle school students but I do not think that it would be out of line to try it with some upper elementary classes. It is also nice because the same general idea could be used for younger students. Does not require a lot of resources but students gain a lot of information.

Wed, Oct 12, 2011 12:03 PM
k-12 learning about the stars

This resource is wonderful because it gives the teacher a view of how the information should be presented not just over one lesson or unit but from early grades on to much older students. I think that I would like to read more of the probes that get students thinking about what they are about to learn and give me an idea of where the children are in terms of understanding. Why spend days on something they already know. I think this could fit very well using the smart board and the response clickers (I'm not sure if that is the correct term for them). The first page that introduces the question could be projected up on the screen for the students and read aloud by either the teacher or the students depending on the age. To save time the students could select their answer by keying it in on the response pad. Instantaneously the teacher has the results.