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Technology
and Cognitive Tools
Dr. Orey (2001) suggested that the information presented must be internalized through diverse learning networks. I have found that using essential questions (EQ) activates the process of thinking. For example, students are guided to answer posing questions. The use of EQ (cues) also encourages additional responses from students. Further, Orey introduced four key components that connect to the theory of cognitive learning: 1) Short-term memory-within a time process 7 ± 2 pieces of information, 2) Elaboration- constructs the concept of networks that that stimulate long-term memory, 3). Paivio’s hypothesis- enables the brain to process information through both text and images and 4) Networks of intertwined connections-recalls stored information (long-term memory) which bridge connections with other pieces of information (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011). I plan on utilizing these 4 key components to help my students with constructing their concept maps. The Kidspiration software will enable my students to classify generated information, connect text to illustration, and synthesize the information. This technology will enable me to differentiate the instructional practice and provide a wider variety of avenues which can meet the needs of all my students (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). In addition, employing virtual field trips will be a great augmentative tool to employ to help my students with processing information and noting details (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007).
Dr. Orey (2001) suggested that the information presented must be internalized through diverse learning networks. I have found that using essential questions (EQ) activates the process of thinking. For example, students are guided to answer posing questions. The use of EQ (cues) also encourages additional responses from students. Further, Orey introduced four key components that connect to the theory of cognitive learning: 1) Short-term memory-within a time process 7 ± 2 pieces of information, 2) Elaboration- constructs the concept of networks that that stimulate long-term memory, 3). Paivio’s hypothesis- enables the brain to process information through both text and images and 4) Networks of intertwined connections-recalls stored information (long-term memory) which bridge connections with other pieces of information (Laureate Education, Inc., 2011). I plan on utilizing these 4 key components to help my students with constructing their concept maps. The Kidspiration software will enable my students to classify generated information, connect text to illustration, and synthesize the information. This technology will enable me to differentiate the instructional practice and provide a wider variety of avenues which can meet the needs of all my students (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007). In addition, employing virtual field trips will be a great augmentative tool to employ to help my students with processing information and noting details (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn & Malenoski, 2007).
References
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program five. Cognitive learning theory [Webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Novak,
J.D. & Cañas, A.J. (2008) The theory underlying concept maps and how to
construct and use them, Technical Report IHMC Cmap Tools 2006-01 rev 01-2008.
Retrieved from the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition Web site:
http://cmap.ihmc.us/Publications/
ResearchPapers/ TheoryUnderlyingConceptMaps.pdf.
ResearchPapers/ TheoryUnderlyingConceptMaps.pdf.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
I like the sound of "Kidspiration" software. It sounds really interesting for the students. All software should be "kid" friendly, even for the young adults that I teach, high school students, who are really just kids.
ReplyDeletethank you for your post
Scott Parks
Scott,
DeleteKidspiration is an awesome resource for all subjects. It does a number of things and has many templates within the program and that you can download from the internet that others have created. For high school students there is a program called Inspiration. It has just as many features, but more advanced for high school students. I think you can sign up for a free trial online. I am lucky because it is a resource that my county supplies for us. They are definitely worth checking out.
Melissa
Martha,
ReplyDeleteI use and love Kidspiration. They have excellent templates to use with math concepts and a great way for students to create concept maps and truly make them their own. I plan on using it in the next science unit that I am going to teach. My class in small groups will be responsible for researching simple machines. I want them to use Kidspiration to record and organize their research. I also think that virtual field trips are an excellent tool to use in the classroom and show real world applications for things that we teach in the classroom.
Melissa