This week in our EDUC 6713 class we read an article titled, "Jumping the PBL implementation hurdle: Supporting the efforts of K-12 teachers," from The Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-Based Learning. In the section of the article about "Promoting Reflective Thinking," the authors point out that "learners have a tendency to focus on the task, experiment, or project rather than on conceptual understanding of the key principles" (Ertmer & Simons, 2006). I realized that I was falling into this trap as I plowed my way through the assignment of creating a GAME plan. I was becoming focused on completing the assignment instead of reflecting on my original plan.
Upon reviewing my original GAME plan, I have come to the conclusion that creating a list with students about ways to focus our "I can" statements once a week, was too frequent given my given position. Most of my classes I see just once a week for an hour. This time is so short that the time it takes to brainstorm would take a large percentage of each class. A goal of once a quarter seems much more reasonable. Teachers often ask me to introduce, extend or review a concept that they must teach in their classroom. This leaves little room for direct student input.
I believe the "I Can" statements we use with our students are still a good focus. They are the state standards for the given content area and grade level. The statements appear to be an aide for me to find "good problems" as discussed by Dr. Ertmer in our media presentation in this week's resources. Our standards are broad enough to explore in a number of ways, but each is focused enough as to give teachers and students alike some borders.
I am still challenged by lack of emails and blogs used both by the students and parents. (Our teachers aren't really using these either. I am in that boat alone.) My tracking of laptops, document cameras and digital cameras has motivated me to meet with my colleagues to offer assistance in getting these into their classrooms. As for the four mimios in the building, they remain in their boxes in the library, unused. I cannot find out why, and I'm frustrated that they are in our building and not available to us.
The GAME plan continues to change.
Resources:
Ertmer, P., & Simons, K. (Spring 2006). Jumping the PBL implementation hurdle: Supporting the efforts of K-12 teachers. The Interdisciplinary Journal of Problem-Based Learning, 1(1), 40-54. Retrieved from http://docs.lib.purdue.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1005&context=ijpbl
Laureate Education, Inc. (Producer). (2009). Program six. Spotlight on Technology: Problem-Based Learning, Part 1 [Motion Picture]. Integrating Technology Across the Content Area. Baltimore: Author.
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12 years ago
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You might want to consider using a wiki as a way to engage students in brainstorming. This would avoid you having to use excessive time in class for this activity.
ReplyDeleteIt is surprising to me as well have infrequent parents and teacher use emails, blogs or other technology based resources in my district. Many teachers want to stick to the old fashion pen and paper as the only teaching and research resource available.
ReplyDeleteSusan,
ReplyDeleteI was going to suggest the same idea Kevin did. A wiki is a great place for your students to brainstorm. I do understand that it is sometimes difficult for students to represent their thoughts in writing. If you use a wiki, the students can implement pictures, drawing, concept maps, charts, and other visuals to describe their brainstorming ideas. This method might encourage students to get involved in using the technology while using creative ways to represent their ideas.
I think you did a really good job evaluating your progress at this point. It is important to reflect on the original goals and figure out ways to resolve the issues. Good post!
Susan,
ReplyDeleteIt seems to me that the GAME plan is one that will continue to evolve as long as we allow it. When we give up on it, that will be a reflection on our motivation and ambition to integrate best practice into our classrooms.
In addition to what the others commented with regards to wikis, consider the time constraints in our minds. My most innovative plans do not happen between the hours of 7:30 and 3:30, when I am ordered to create. Wikis allow a sense of flexibility for those students who need time to process ideas. You might consider getting started on a class wiki for extra or replacement credit. Those who are interested right away will jump right in. Others' curiosity will be piqued soon enough.
The reflective process is as crucial to our development as teachers as it is to our students' ability to develop a true appreciation for learning. I believe that we are all a work in progress!
Keep up the good work!
-Tara Lynn
Educ 6713