The two chapters in the learning resources this week directly relate to cognitive learning theories. According to Lever-Duffy & McDonald cognitivists “focus on learning, as a mental operation that takes place when information enters through the senses, undergoes mental manipulation, is stored, and is finally used” (Lever-Duffy & McDonald, p. 16, 2008). When using cues, questioning, graphic organizers, and note taking and summarizing graphic organizers, the teacher is directly focusing on the ability of students “mental operation” (Lever-Duffy & McDonald, p. 16, 2008).
Using programs like inspiration, word, or power point to create graphic organizers allows the student to see, in a neat and organized way what the essential question is, and what the sub topics are. A graphic organizer allows a student to visualize the concept, much easier than bullets, or paragraphs could!
Virtual field trips, one of the cognitive tools, are priceless!! After watching the video about virtual field trips I now realize how valuable they are, especially in this economy. Students can gain tremendous knowledge from the videos and pictures that virtual field trips can walk them through. They also allow students to take information in through all the senses, increasing cognition.
Lever-Duffy, J. & McDonald, J. (2008). Theoretical Foundations (Laureate Education, Inc.,custom ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2008). “Spotlight on Technology: Virtual Field Trips”. Baltimore: Author.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I agree, I was so excited by reading about the virtual fieldtrips and look forward to incorporating more in my classroom in the future. I find it fascinating that students could be immersed in a location that is thousands of miles away and experiencing the situation first hand. I agree as well that the incredible resources available on the web will aid students in understanding the material more. I remember when I first started teaching, giving my student nicely organized outline notes on the overhead projector, today we use powerpoints, graphic organizers, foldables, etc. that do a much better job of organizing the information.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely, and it really makes it much easier for us in the long run because we have it year to year!!
ReplyDeleteIt is nice to create a concept map with your class, print it our for them, and let them add more information as they continue learning. I suppose the online concept mapping tools would be a better tools use if your want to "go paper-less". The collaboration that could go into a concept map with the whole class would be interesting. I still struggle with the logistics of getting enough computer lab time! I really liked your ideas about virtual field trips!
ReplyDelete