Journal+for+November+15-22

This week's reading focused on Constructivism. The main idea is that students learn best if they get to experience things, and then reflect on the experiences. The role of the teacher becomes more of a facilitator, than the traditional leader of the learning. The teacher directs the students to a topic or problem, but lets them be the ones who figure out a solution through their experiences. The use of effective questioning, and group cooperation is essential to the constructivist model. While many teachers probably employ some of the stategies of constructivism in their classrooms, there are definitley some external factors which prevent them from using the method completely. As mentioned in the article, testing requirements go directly against the constructivist model. In my own district, results of statewide testing directly drive the curriculum. We do not have the liberty to let students decide how they want to be evaluated. Another major factor in the success of such a program is the motivation of the individual students. While some students would thrive in an environment where they have the freedom to choose what they want to learn, others simply are not motivated enough to handle that responsibility. Many of my students don't see the long-term reward of a good education, and simply come to school for the social aspect, or because they have to. These students need the guidance of a traditional teacher and curriculum to create order in their educational experiences. I do believe that good questioning and cooperative learning are important to successful learning, and try to employ them in my classroom as much as possible. I also believe that increasing the use of 21st century technology in the classroom is a good way to bring more of the constructivist model into our schools. However, it seems that a mix of a variety of strategies is still the best way for us to meet the responsibilities we have for educating all of the students, while addressing the requirements we all must meet. I was confused about the section of the reading with the expert interview. Was there a video to go with this, so we could hear her answers? If so, where was it found? The only video link I saw was not it. If someone could let me know where it is, I'll go back and watch it. I would like to hear her answers to some of the questions. This week we also worked on our student needs assessment, and will be ready for the studens to complete it next week. Hopefully it will help us as we determine where to go with our technology program. Finally, although I am getting more comfortable with the various sites we are using, I am still encountering some problems and frustrations. Mainly, how do you all keep track of the various log-ins and passwords? Between my own home ones, my school ones, and now these, I am having a lot of trouble keeping them all staight. Any helpful ideas? Thanks. Mark Smith