Final Post

TPTE 486 has begun the process of my understanding of the constructivist learning theory.  I came into the class with a definition of the theory and have left making connections of how to integrate this into my classroom.  I have learned some creative ways to engage my students during the semester.  Hopefully this will help them think more critically as well as have more fun in my class.  Now, I am not so dated when it comes to technology.  I know that there is still so much more out "there".  I realize that I have to take it one step at a time in order to implement this.  Otherwise, I might become overwhelmed.      I have really enjoyed this class and what it has taught me.

Digital Story

I loved doing this.  It was a creative outlet for me and it was fun coordinating all the different pieces in order to have a finished product.  I can't wait to see how I am going to incorporate this into my classroom.  It could be through a project explaining some concept.  I actually think using iMovie is something that my students will enjoy!  I am planning on using my movie on the first day of school.

There is light at the end of the tunnel.....

As I approach the end of this course, I am seeing light at the end of the tunnel.  I am beginning to see how tools can help students begin to construct and support their own learning.  I am looking forward to trying some of the things I have learned in the classroom.  The IBA is one.  I want to construct an IBA and see how the students respond to it.  These are time consuming to create BUT once they are created, they are done and ready to tweak.  OR there are resources out there that have them already created and ready to use or tweak. 

The other one I like is the Interactive White Board.  Again, once created, they are ready to be used or tweaked.  I think that students would love doing the activity and referring back to it. 

As I have been creating these projects, I am beginning to see how the constructivist theory can be used in the classroom.  I am still not 100% there but it is much clearer.  It is just a different way of thinking about education.  Students today are different than I went through, so why not try it!

Inspiration

I see using Inspiration as a way to introduce concepts.  It would a great way for students to see concepts and how they map out prior to a unit.  Visual learners who need to see the whole picture would appreciate this type of a presentation.  Also, it would be a good way for learners to create this prior to the lesson.  If they create it prior to the unit, then they will have an idea of the unit and what they are about to study.