This week, we were asked to read Generating and Testing Hypotheses from the book, Using Technology with Classroom Instruction that Works. This chapter presented six tasks to help students create their own hypotheses which were, systems analysis, problem solving, historical investigation, invention, experimental inquiry, and decision making. By using one of these six methods, students can construct their own ways to test their hypothesis. This chapter also suggested three technological ideas in order to go about testing the hypothesis. They were Spreadsheet Software, Data Collection, and Web Resources. Honestly, the spreadsheet section confused me and I highly doubt that I would use it anyway. I'm not much of a mathematical kind of gal, so that would not naturally be the tool I would choose. I do think it would work well for students who are more logical and matematically minded and could construct their own spreadsheets to calculate their findings.
The web resources and gaming software brought to life a "Risk" like dynamic where students could logically think through an historic event and play out several scenarios. The constructionist theory works well here because students are creating different methods of play to figure out which would have worked better. I also like the idea of it being more interactive and having different outcomes that can be tested time and time again. There was a great list of several different gaming sites for students to "play" with.
Data collection tools were a more pragmatic way of looking at data. Students have a table created for them where they just plug in the information they found during their experiment and compare it to the other data they have collected. This is more of the traditional way I think we have all experienced when testing hypotheses in the past.
All three methods are great ideas to go about collecting data and testing hypotheses. I guess it just really depends on how comfortable the student or teacher is constructing the experiment and creating the hypotheses. One of the methods should work nicely for each student in a class.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Tinker Toys
Posted by Stephanie at 10:16 PM
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5 comments:
Stephanie,
I totally agree with you about the spreadsheet section. It was confusing and I cannot imagine trying to use that with my 3rd grade inclusion students. I do think that I could create a more simple version, but still would probably chose a different approach. Great Post!
Stephanie,
I was also impressed by the spreadsheets and graphs. I know there is always a way I may twist it and modify it according to what I am teaching, but I would have to feel comfortable and practice it myself first. I also agree that students learn by playing and being engaged.
Stephanie,
I agree that all three methods suggested this week will help the students collect data to test, however it just depends on the teachers comfort. I had not thought about that aspect until I read your post. I am sure every teacher read this section of the book and instantly felt a connection to one of three methods. I was impressed with the spreadsheet lesson, but also intimidated to create one.
Stephanie,
Great post, very well thought out. I agree with every teacher being able to use on of the methods. However, I am not sure how I would incorporate it into my class this year. It would have to be something they do in groups, I have to many that need assistance, especially with higher order thinking.
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