The purpose of cognitive learning is to “allow students to interact with information in order to acquire, synthesize, create and share new knowledge” (Orey 2007). Strategies like “cues, questions, and advance organizers” give students the ability to analyze information, connect with prior knowledge , and spark interest. I like to start lessons with either a specific question like: “What is a mosaic?” “What is a seascape?” or “Do you know who Roy G Biv is?”. I also ask abstract questions, “If you had a fantasy tree house, what would it look like?” A combination of these types of “questions and cues” allow my students to think critically and cognitively about the theme.
Concept mapping technology allows students to have a more personal “student centered” learning experience. Having students create a KWL chart and use educational technology to expand their knowledge, “empowers learners to become active and responsible filters of information in which they engage in directing their mental processes; therefore, the role of the teacher resumes the “guide on the side” (Orey 2001).
Virtual field trips is also a technology that fosters cognitive learning. Virtual field trips and interactive websites allow students to, “learn ‘with’ as opposed to ‘from” (Orey 2001). It is one thing to see a stagnant picture of the King Tut’s tomb but to get a chance to virtually explore a pyramid, like Dr. Howard Carter, would result in a more enjoyable, personal, and meaningful educational experience . Although I haven’t had much experience working with virtual field trips, I am excited to see how they can be integrated with the lessons I already teach and inspire new projects.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Kristina,
ReplyDeletePartaking in a virtual field trip gives educators permission to travel the world with their students. Dr. Orey in this weeks resources talks about creating "episodic memories"(Laureate, 2009) for our students. It is a great way of reaching a wide range of modalities and establishing a "network"(2009) of retrieval pathways.
Julie
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.
Kristina,
ReplyDeleteI have never taken my students on any "virtual field trips," but that is because I never knew they existed! I would think that these trips would be particularly valuable to you, as you probably are not likely to take your students to art museums where they can see the many famous works that you address in your classes. Perhaps you can find such a field trip online so that your students can see the richness and the value of these paintings, etc. Seeing artwork in person is so much more meaningful than just seeing pictures (it seems that cameras just can't quite capture everything) and maybe a field trip of a museum would do the artwork a little more justice. I don't know, but it may be worth looking into! Good luck!
J. Robinson
Yes, the tours are a learn with and not from idea. I feel students look at a textbook, but actually see inside and the perspective when dealing with a virtual tour. The tours offer movements, sounds, and layers to the learner. Do you notice how their focus improves? I also see distracted students take a more active role in lessons with maps and tours. Do you see the same with your students?
ReplyDeleteJennifer-
ReplyDeleteYou are completely right! Viewing a poster has no comparison to seeing the actual art up close! I am always so amazed by how much smaller or larger the actual art is! Like for instance Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, it is a tiny portrait but has had the largest impact on the art world for hundreds of years.
Jay-
ReplyDeleteYes, anytime I put the digital projector on, my students are instantly much more engaged. although I haven't had much experience with virtual field trips I going to do some more research to find the ones that can really enhance student learning.
Kristina,
ReplyDeleteThis week is my first time trying out concept maps and virtual field trips. I never even knew that the concept "virtual field trip" existed until this graduate course. I, too, think that the students will definitely be more engaged into the content.
-Amy
The challenge is finding virtual field trips for your subject. I find it challenging thus far to find tours matching with my curriculum. I found it somewhat easier to find history tours, but I am now an 8th grade civics/economics teacher. I'll keep looking.
ReplyDeleteJay,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you. Since I teach world history, it is a bit easier to find virtual field trips that go with my curriculum, but I'm sure it is difficult to find ones for civics/economics. Did you try your state's educational government websites and/or your state's educational museum? Just an idea...
-Amy
I agree that it is challenging to find virtual field trips in certain subjects. I teach health and physical education and there seems to be a limited amount of virtual field trips dedicated to my curriculum area. I have started looking into creating my own virtual field trips. I also thought it would be neat to allow student to contribute as well. I think it would really engage and motive students to become involved in their own learning.
ReplyDelete