What to construct?

The constructionism theory of learning states people learn best when they build an external artifact or something they can share with others (Laureate, 2009). In this weeks resources, the savings, investments, and interest rate spreadsheet assignment is an example of this theory. The teacher wanted students to understand that compounding interest and saving money can lead to strong earnings. This lesson is something that students can relate to and learn the value of saving and investing money for the future.

I feel kindergarten is a year where constructionism is used throughout the year.
In kindergarten, we have learning centers where children problem solve through age appropriate play and manipulatives. They are encouraged to use their own thoughts and be creative in the centers. Students are building using blocks and collaborating in groups. Last spring I had a few students show me a beehive they built with math pattern blocks. They remembered what it looked like in a book and wanted to create a bee colony. Other shapes were the members of the colony. It was so cute.

I enjoy watching the 5 year olds take part in learning by doing and discovering. At that age their minds are full of questions and what the world has to offer. I am excited to introduce more technology in the students' education. Technology will be with the students for the rest of their lives.


DVD: Laureate Education, Inc. (2009). “Bridging Learning Theory, Instruction, and Technology”

Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.

Over and Over

Learning about the behaviorist learning theory brought back many elementary thru college memories. I remember the days when I invested in 3x5 index cards and studied off of flashcards. There were many nights of drilling words and numbers into my head. I have a hard time using drill and practice all the time in my classroom. I am a big believer of making connections with the students. Making connections is one part of my teaching philosophy. I want the students to have an understanding of the material and show them how they can relate to the information.

Even though my teaching philosophy contains making connections, I teach kindergarten. With 5 year olds you need a lot of drill and practice. My class thrives on routine and consistency. The computer programs the students use have games that are based on repitition. Our small group reading program also contains repitition. We do the same routine just use different letters each week. I try to find a balance when using the different theories in the classroom. I know the students need the drill and practice but I also want them to know why and how to apply the information.