Learning Connections ISTE Article 3

Learning Connections Article
Improving Small group Learning, by Tammy P. Smith

Infusing technology of all kinds, such as iPods, overheads, digital video cameras, computers, tape recorders, science probes, and WebQuests is small groups can be a great way to engage otherwise attention deficit students. Students who may not enjoy paper and pencil may enjoy the kinesthetic use of technology. Once you have their attention through creative use of technology, it is much easier to present the academic content.

Question 1 - How can using technology engage students in higher-order thinking?
At an elementary level, students can explore an interactive site that shows a botanical garden learning what types of plant life would exist in different biomes. You could then ask them a question that would force them to relate how those plants looked to the type of climate they grew in. And the students would have to explain why they look different in a desert versus temperate coastal forest for instance. This could then be related to the theory of evolution and how the different plants evolved those observed characteristics to survive in the prevailing climate.


Question 2 - What is the benefit of a small group project using technology over lecture? It is essential to engage students before you can teach them anything. Today's children are exposed to a myriad of technology that flashes and makes sounds and has colorful moving pictures so a teacher standing up in front of them talking for almost an hour is going to put them to sleep. A small group working on a project allows collaboration among the group and using technology keeps them engaged.

Ryan Kelly