Article review of "A Handle on Hands-On"

This week I read an article “A Handle on Hands-On”. Fortunately, educators have already realized the importance of hand-on activities, but they still work on finding the solution to manage t... See More

This week I read an article “A Handle on Hands-On”. Fortunately, educators have already realized the importance of hand-on activities, but they still work on finding the solution to manage the materials. This article introduces two areas : managing the materials for school wide sharing and managing materials in the classroom. First, there are three strategies for school wide managing the materials , finding appropriate storage space, stocking and supervision of materials, and organizing for maximum efficiency. And for managing the materials in the classroom, it contains: assign student jobs, easy-care supply distribution, color-coded storage, and negotiate a budget. These organizational tips come from authors’ classroom experience and things they learned from veteran elementary teachers with whom they have worked in various capacities. I really enjoy reading this article, because tips are very practical and helpful for dealing with managing the hand-on activities’ materials. Indeed, good management should consider overall factors. Which means, we should put students, teachers, and schools into consideration, so that everyone in different position has a clear understanding about their responsibility in terms of dealing with the activities materials. Manage strategies school wide play an fundamental role in whole process. For example, even students and teachers want to organize their materials, school can provide them with the space for storage, they still struggle with this issue. In addition, it is critical that teachers establish clear “jobs” and procedures early in the school year in order to make sure students understand the rules. Then, recorders write down a data sheet or handout all observations that the group makes during an investigation, which is a very necessary approach to remind every student and teacher to obey the rules and take their responsibilities in terms of managing hand-on activities materials. Reference Schiller, E. & Konecki, L. & Joseph, J. (2004). A handle on hands-on. Science and Children, July, 1.

Organization is the Key

There are many things to consider when organizing and distributing science supplies to either the whole school or within your own classroom. On a school level your need to consider: finding... See More

There are many things to consider when organizing and distributing science supplies to either the whole school or within your own classroom. On a school level your need to consider: finding appropriate storage space; stocking and supervising materials; and organizing materials for efficiency. Within the classroom one must consider: students having specific jobs; easy-care distribution system; color-coded storage; and to negotiate a budget. This practical advice with help provide hands-on activities to your students.