Week 2 Reflection

    I am kind of into the multiple intelligence thing, and this is one reason I find the use of technology so beneficial to learners. It can appeal to students with many different intelligences.  Now, the science literacy  standards that are in the process of being developed are extremely worthwhile, and personally, I have found when I make students read a lab and write up a prelab ( purpose, materials/equipment and procedure)  before they come into lab, they do a lot better in the lab because they know what they are doing. The writing forces them to read carefully. I also have found when students can rewrite what they have learned, in their own words, that this is beneficial , but so is drawing out a diagram.  If they turn their learning into a diagram or draw what is happening, especially on a molecular level- this is very helpful, to them and me. I can see very quickly if they understand the concept. They have to interpret the concept into a visual form.

   Again, the key part in reading, writing, drawing, whatever method is the engagement part.  This is where technology can really help.  A student who does not particularly like to write, may find it fun to make a script and use Blabberize,  or express his thoughts using a Voki.  Wallwisher is another website that allows students to write their thoughts, reactions, or understanding in a very succinct way.( it is kind of like everyone tweeting on one page). When I have used it- the students really enjoy seeing what everyone else wrote. It provides an audience for each student’s work also. This in and of itself can encourage students to pay more attention to their writing.  TED talks are ideal for asking for a piece of reflection writing. They are so thought provoking.  They also allow students to see possibilities- some of the talks are so cutting edge-using falling water as a wall, making a battery from algae, etc. etc.  I also enjoy having students watch TED because the presenters tend to be very good presenters- they don’t read from powerpoints, they have few words on their slides, they use color and and simple text to their best advantage. Most presenters convey ideas in very engaging and interesting ways. Ways I encourage my students to use in their presentations.

    Of course when we ask our students to engage in all these activities, we are right in there with them, and so learn also. This is where the excitement and enjoyment of science can enter the classroom. Students can blow us away with their creativity, talents and ideas and all we really need to do is guide them in how to express themselves and learn for themselves best. O.K. maybe I’m getting carried away- we do have to teach them about valence electrons and the gas laws, and mole problems can be a little dry. It isn't always fun- for them or us. But it can be interesting.