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Less vs More Pre-K Math Lesson via Voice Thread

Mathematics is such a fun subject to teach in early childhood especially when I am able to make it fun for students. Check out my Voice Thread Lesson. In this lesson I taught students about the concept of "less" while also connecting to their prior knowledge about cardinality and a previously taught lesson about the concept of "more".  https://voicethread.com/myvoice/thread/25626618

Constructionism vs Constructivism and Tech in the Classroom

  In accordance with Orey one notes that Constructionism (an educational theory by Piaget) vs Constructivism (an ideology by his student Papert) is quite possibly the difference in theory vs choice in application. Constructivism is the belief that new knowledge is built on prior knowledge and Constructionism encourages the creation of artifacts to stimulate and solidify that growth (Orey,2010). The premise of creation in constructionism does lead one to believe that constructionism can be seen as an extension of constructivism, however it is arguable that constructionism is the more open-ended approach. However, according to Orey (Laureate Education, 2015), both terms are normally viewed as synonymous. In our modern world of education, we know that tech can help to facilitate student growth in the constructionist classroom.   The introduction of the book Mindstorm by Seymour Papert revolutionized educational theory and learning in the classroom. Seymour, who was a student o...

Virtual Field Trip, Data Input and Collection

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  Graphic Organizer Created via Canva: https://www.canva.com/design/DAF0_5-sUus/q4k3UXXli5GUONsvdc6VeA/view?utm_content=DAF0_5-sUus&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=editor Teacher guided work example                                       Student Completed Work Example  Here is the link to our field Trip:  Videos | San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers (sdzwildlifeexplorers.org) Before the Thanksgivnig break my 1st graders and I enjoyed a virtual field trip for science class. We visited the SanDiego zoo and watched the animals in their enclosures via live feeds. We used individual ipads to collect data then compared and contrasted an aquatic vs land animal. I guided students as we completed the Platypus/Ape organizer while Hippo/Elephant was monitored as I circulated and supported. Students worked cooperatively and were previously taught how to utilize ...

Utilizing Behaviorism and Technology in the Elementary Classroom

  Introduction:   In the vast area of education, various theories and methods affect the way teachers approach instruction. One such theory is behaviorism. As Dr. Michael Orey points out “Behaviorism is the red headed stepchild of all the learning theories” ( Walden University, 2015). It is believed to be less popular as focuses on behaviors and their correlation to learning outcomes. In this blog, we will discuss how the theory of behaviorism can be applied to the classroom in a positive manner, contrary to its negative rapport.   Not only can operant Conditioning as referred to by Dr.Orey can be a powerful tool in helping to curb avoidant and disruptive behavior but it can also assist with student learning through adaptive tech. I believe this can be done in the following ways.   Elementary Education calls for Expectations:   Arguably the best tool in classroom management is prevention. Teachers should start each day with an actionable plan to set st...