Instructional strategies and technology tools support the constructionist approach to learning. Two strategies we learned about are project-based learning and problem-based learning. I have used the first and look forward to using them both next year. With project-based learning students choose and organize their project, do research and then synthesize their information (Orey, 2001). My accounting students participate in a lengthy project as a year-end activity. In it they apply all the concepts learned during the year.
I can see that problem-based learning has a place in my personal finance course. In this learning strategy students are challenged to address real-world problems. With the current credit crisis in our country; I see problem-based learning as being very appropriate. They can create an artifact (PowerPoint presentation, podcast, voice thread, brochure etc.) that will be shared with fellow students, their parents, and perhaps the world.
Spreadsheet software is a technology tool I currently use. In the future I can add the artifact and sharing aspects to a car-selection activity that teaches decision-making skills. Whether it be spreadsheets, computer-based simulations, decision-making matrices, webquests, educational games, student-created PowerPoint presentations, or podcasts, all of these technology tools will assist students in creating their own learning.
At the Chautauqua Institute last week, Dr. Thomas Insel, the director of the National Institute of Mental Health, elaborated on how our brains learn. Based on what I learned at the Institute and through our readings this week, constructionism should have a bright future in the educational community.
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology.
Baltimore: Author
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works.
Alexandria, VA: ASCD
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching,
and technology. Retrieved from
http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/index.php?title=Main_Page
3 comments:
Diane,
I think the constructionist theory goes hand in hand with accounting - and it sounds like you have some great activities that would support that. Your idea about doing a project-based activity on the country's economic crisis sounds wonderful! What a great way to get your students involved in current events! I also like how you use Excel to have them do a project on buying cars. Our middle school students do something similar in their Life Skills course, where they choose what job they would like to have in the future, find the median salary, and then have to budget throughout the year using a spreadsheet. It's shocking to see their concept of money before the class - we have students that want to be dental assistants and expect to be able to afford a huge house and fancy cars. By having students create spreadsheets to see what their budget is really like, they get a good taste of what the future holds. I think it's so important that we have our students create projects that our personal to their lives because they get so much more out of them.
Great post!
Diane,
I really like your plan to use problem-based learning for your personal finance course. The authentic learning about credit cards and "out of control" spending will make for a very engaging project I am sure. I think you are right that Constructionism will play an increasing role in our educational future.
I agree with you that problem-based learning has a place in my classroom too. It is a great way to get the students to work through an issue and work to find the answer. The example given this week of Mrs. Omar's class could be applied to many different subjects and curriculums. By creating projects the students have something to show for thier hard work. It also gives the students a different way to learn material without having to complete worksheet after worksheet. Using different technologies students have great projects to share and build on what they have already learned. It is a great idea to use these techniques in the classroom.
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