In watching this weeks videos I found myself interested in the topic of Game-Based Learning as it correlates to a workshop I have been attending on the importance of play in primary education. I often use games within my teaching to increase student engagement and provide a different avenue in which students learn various concepts. For example, in math, I use games as a station in which students are given access to a variety of online math games. Another example is using printed paper games as another station in which students can practice their skills. In using game play I’ve found that students are often more engaged and thoroughly enjoy the concept they’re practicing as opposed to simply writing out answers on a worksheet. This video focused on the concept of Game-Based Learning which is something I would like to explore within my MEd project as I am currently researching the benefits of Inquiry based learning. Through this research I have taken the approach of Genius Hour within my classroom. Game-Based learning may be a way in which my students demonstrates their understanding of their inquiry.
Furthermore, the concept of Appreciative Inquiry is a topic that directly correlates to my research topic. When watching the video about Appreciative Inquiry my mind immediately thought about my Genius hour and Growth Mindset. It sounds like Appreciate Inquiry is a combining of these two concepts. Within Genius hour as an inquiry based learning technique, students need to be taught how to handle the continual successes and failures of their projects. Inquiry projects are not smooth sailing and students often find certain concepts frustrating when they hit dead ends. Therefore, it is important to instill a work ethic that encourages a positive mindset and collaboration with others. In doing this, students may be able to look at situations from varying perspectives and to push past the immediate failure towards new understanding. In listening to this video, I want to look at the research behind a Growth Mindset approach and whether it can actually improve students work habits within inquiry based learning.
Overall, the videos continually touches on a similar point in that technology is not easily integrated into classrooms. In being an elementary school teacher it often takes more time to prepare the student to use the technology than for them to actually use it. By this I mean, teaching them how to type in order to research, teaching them how to navigate apps or the home screen. Although, this seems like a tedious or strenuous task, it is really important. It’s important because in order for students to interact with a source of knowledge such as technology they need to be taught at a young age how to maneuver it. Technology may not always be the center of the classroom but it is an important piece of the next generations reality. It is important for teachers to figure out how technology can work for them within their classroom and to make space for students to interact with it.
Picture Links:
- https://pixabay.com/photos/children-win-success-video-game-593313/
- https://pixabay.com/illustrations/metamorphosis-development-2790887/
- https://pixabay.com/illustrations/brain-mind-psychology-idea-drawing-2062057/
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