This week on TechTalk, we will explore a micro bit and all the wonders it has to do with Constructionism .
Constructionism, it is an open ended learning approach where a teacher focusses on a construction lesson rather than a transfer of knowledge “normal lesson”. We then extend this idea by viewing functional materials to include that learning is most effective when the activities the students experience are building meaningful products (Papert, 1986, p. 2). Constructionism is a revival given how it has changed my own view of pedagogy, teaching, and learning.
This approach is seen to foster best during STEM or science and technology an example of application in the classroom is , have your students build a prototype compost bin, using Micro: Bits they then are challenged to create a hand off movable lid to add leftovers and time. Students can bridge the gap between ideas and reality. Cultivating this bridge encourages students to believe that anything is possible. A criticism-free environment produces the most creative students (Schad and Jones, 2020). The best fit for this in the classroom is during science and technology also referred to as STEM it helps to achieve code ST2-3DP-T which urges students to develop algorithms to answer solutions such can you get this robot to move.
Additionally, there is an ability to learn about coding, which helps the idea come to life. The benefits of it are that coding boosts problem-solving skills, improves computational thinking, encourages patience, and, most importantly, teaches creativity. It teaches creativity because coding allows young students to create new and unique applications, helping establish a platform for these students to channel their creative potential (Schad and Jones, 2020).
This advantage is that programming encourages and The Maker Movement is that it promotes the development of critical thinking abilities, patience, and, most importantly, creativity (Schad and Jones, 2020). A limitation acknowledged is that Micro:Bit can be extremely tricky to comprehend however this does not limit a student’s ability to create, if a student find this task tricky have them focus on the design/ prototype aspect of the project and pair them with students who are able to grasp the task.
The images below show how you can use Micro: Bit learning tools to bring ideas to life and learn to code and directly. Encourage collaborative learning by increasing engagement in crafting, learning, and bonding.
That is for this week TechTalk - tune next week for something new and fun
Works Cited
Schad, M., & Jones, W. M. (2020). The maker movement and education: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 52(1), 65-78.
NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA). (2017). Science K–10 Syllabus. NSW Curriculum.
Papert, S., & Harel , I. (1991). Situating Constructionism. Ablex Publishing Corporation
Hi Imijin
I really enjoyed reading your blog on constructionism as it provided me with great ideas on how creativity can be fostered. I also really liked how you linked activity to a specific syllabus outcome.
Hi Imijin,
This was such a fantastic blog, I really enjoyed reading it. You have provided such a great understanding and analysis of the micro:bit using Constructionism and The Maker Movement. You have included some great examples of what students can do in which classes. This is so helpful for teachers who are looking to incorporate this technology into the classroom - Great job. I wonder if you have thought about any limitations to using the micro:bit in class, it may be challenging for some students and they may require additional guidance at the beginning. Overall, this looks like a valuable tool to inplement using the contructionst approach as it teaches students to code and make different designs.
Well done.
Hi Imijin,
Thank you for your clear introduction of constructivism and the use of Micro: Bit, one of learning tools to support constructing idea. I agree with you that learners boost their computational thinking skills, patience and creativity by engaging in problem-solving activities and coding. Additionally, it’s wonderful that students can learn from each other, and foster a positive and criticism-free learning environment. However, I am also pondering on whether there are any limitations to the constructivism approach and the use of Micro:Bit.
Overall, the use of Micro:Bit as a learning tool can provide valuable opportunities for students to develop important skills and foster a love for learning that can extend beyond the classroom.
Xin li
06/04/2023
Hi Im! I've really enjoyed keeping up with your blogs, and this one is no different! You always provide a great perspective on how to implement some really cool tech in the classroom, and explain some great activities as a starting point.
I believe you were meaning to talk about Papert's theory of constructionism, rather than constructivism. Similar names, but slightly different topics. Other than that minor change, I am really impressed with your content, and excited to use this technology in my own classroom!
05/04/2023