Friday, May 22, 2009

Cognitivism in Practice

After reviewing the different strategies for using graphic organizers in our required reading, I have to say, "Wow! Why did I not think of that?" Graphic organizers, cues, probing helps students recall the information recently learned. Dr. Orey(2009) described cognitive learning as a process where students learn to store new information, and the ability for them to retrieve the information at will ( Laureate Education, Inc, 2009). With the graphic organizers shown from using word process to advance organizers such as kidspiration help students make connections and retrieve information when needed (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007, p. 78). Often students do not make good connections when not engaged. Having them write down, from brain storming to making a table will aid them in making connections. In the long run, students will be able to make connections easier, and retain the information longer. This is what all of us teachers want. This week was a great learning experience.

Reference:

Laureate Education, Inc (Executive Producer). (2009). Bridging learning theory, instruction, and technology. Baltimore: Author.

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

5 comments:

  1. It was interesting for me when watching the DVD this week when using pictures to help students learn was being discussed. It is important to use pictures to help students learn, but you have to make sure they are the right kind of pictures. Sometimes when people use power point they will add a cute picture or sound, but it really does not have to do with any thing about the learning. Specific pictures about the topic with a word or two underneith it work best so students can see the picture and read the word that connects with it.

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  2. It is also helpful when we as teachers relate information to experiences that they have encountered or "episodic experiences" (Laureate Education, 2009). Allowing students to learn by using as many connections as possible is wonderful and I truly do believe will help students retain information longer rather than just for the exam and then forget the information. I enjoyed this weeks material as well and I have taken away some wonderful ideas that I am going to implement into my physical education classes.

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  3. I liked the idea of relating information to real experiences or encounters so students do not get the impression that the stuff they are learning about never happens or does not exist. Providing students with as many avenues as possible helps enhance the opportunity that they will retain the information being presented.

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  4. I also really got a lot out of this week's resources. Many of the strategies suggested were ways to help students before they started learning. By taking a few steps and making a few changes to adapt to how students take in information it can make a big difference in how the lesson is received. I also agree with what Corey said about giving variety to help the learner retain information. Adding pictures to a lesson might not help every student retain the information, but if it helps some of the students I think it is worth the extra effort to add these strategies into our lessons.

    Jason

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  5. I agree that this week's resources were very informative and easy to comprehend. I found myself making connections throughout the DVD presentations as well as the many readings. I agree with you that it is difficult for students to make connections when they are not engaged. It is sometimes challeging to engage all students, however we must attempt in some way to reach them all through creative and innovate lessons.

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