Inquiry-based learning
Tolisano sums up my current status of inquiry learning when she states, "You need to experience through technology in order to see how you can translate that into your teaching" (2013). My work through FRIT 7234 is definitely opening my eyes to the world of inquiry learning; I am experiencing firsthand the success of struggle and failure. I am quickly recognizing the importance of shifting my pedagogy in the classroom. Before this module, I may have equated students using technology as a sufficient model of inquiry learning. However, I have since realized the need for students to encounter "experiential learning" and "to fail through the learning process" (Laufenberg, 2010).
I love that Laufenberg begins her video by explaining how the purpose of school has changed; in the past, school was a place that gave information. Now, school is a place where educators guide students to information. Learning is a student-centered process that involves technology and collaboration to create an authentic experience. Rather than teaching content, educators teach students (Barseghian, 2013). Our role as educators is to prepare students to be lifelong learners. While this statement may sound cliche', the simple truth is that students need to be prepared to construct their own understanding.
On a personal level, I am also recognizing the role that problem solving and critical thinking play in inquiry learning. I am like most of my students: I like a clear cut outline with step-by-step instructions so that I can be "successful" on assignments. Because assignments like the infographic and curated list left me floundering a bit, I was forced to use problem solving and critical thinking skills to complete the tasks. I have experienced frustrations, and I have failed through the processes, but I feel accomplished at the end. I believe the concepts are far more valuable because of the avenues I had to take to seek out resources and persevere. My work this semester is preparing me to empathize and relate to my students in a way that I will be able to motivate and encourage them.
As I consider the components necessary for my three mini lessons, I explored the Implementing Inquiry text within the module. The bulleted list below shares the eight principles of inquiry-based learning that are included with details and a rubric. Ideally, my lessons will include all eight factors and will move students to the accomplished column of the rubric.
- Authenticity
- Deep understanding
- Assessment
- Appropriate use of technology
- Student success
- Connecting with experts
- Performances of understanding
- Ethical citizenship
References
Implementing Inquiry. Retrieved from
http://images.pcmac.org/Uploads/MadisonCityAL/MadisonCityAL/SubDepartments/DocumentsCategories/Documents/Implementing-Inquiry.pdf
Keren-Kolb, L. (2013, May).
Engage, Enhance, and Extend. Learning
& Leading with Technology, 20-27.
I agree Krista! Prior to this course I have had students working with technology sufficiently, but they did not really proceed with inquiry learning and experimental learning. I'm going to hit the ground running in my classroom next year with my students!
ReplyDeleteI also liked the way Diana Laufenberg showed the progression from a teacher-centered classroom (one room school house) to a student-centered classroom (today). I know many of us (myself included!) struggle with failure. We want to succeed without failing first. Diana does a great job reminding us that failure is part of learning. "You have to be comfortable with letting students fail as part of the learning process" (Laufenberg, 2010).
ReplyDeleteHeather I understand where you are coming from, I too am the type that need my assignment direction clear and straight to the point. I need examples, just to give me an exact idea on what the assignment is asking for but I guess this is what inquiry learning is all about. We can't have everything laid out and answered for us we have to go out searching for examples, information, and answers on our own. With this class I've learned so much already and look forward to whats in store. Before now I never used this much technology for anything, but as we all can see technology can do great things in our lives, it gives us the opportunity to learn from others, gain a deep understanding of information by utilizing the many resources , and technology gives us the chance to be better teachers and educators.
ReplyDeleteEven thought my student text book and work book are online and my students must have access to a computer to do their work, like you, I also realized through this class that I was not using technology in the most effective manner. I understand better what it means to use inquiry based learning and intend to transform my classroom as well.
ReplyDeleteGreat blog! I agree with you and Laufenberg, the purpose of school has changed, now school is becoming a place where educators guide students to information. However, do you feel our curriculum standards are supporting the purpose? For example, are the standards encouraging students to problem solve or think critically. For students to have an authentic experience, there needs to be a set foundation of background information to lead students to adequately solve problems and think critically. My point being, not only does the role of teaching have to change but so do the standards to allow educators to take the students to a higher level of thinking.
ReplyDelete