Process Questions from Edelson’s “Learning for Use: A Framework for the Design of Technology-Supported Inquiry Activities
Mar 5th, 2009 by Steffanie Reid
What is the author’s theory of learning?
The authors general theory of learning is constructivist, in that he believes meaningful learn only occurs when students build their own models and understanding of concepts. He believes that effective learning occurs when students are motivated to investigate a topic due to their realization that they lack knowledge of something they want to know. His “Learning for Use” theory includes the idea that students should find the information vre seeking useful, so that they understand why they are studying something and are interested in the results of their studies.
I find this theory fascinating. It is an application that can be applied to many different types of constructivist learning, such as problem-based learning, as it supplies a method to follow to achieve every educators desired result; knowledge gains for their students.
Explain the reasons for integrating digital technology as a key part of this learning experience.
Technology takes on a number of roles in this TELE. It is used as a design tool, to allow the students to create their maps of the world. It is a source of information for the students, when it is utilized to supply topographic maps, temperature data, etc. It is an analysis and record-keeping tool, allowing the students to save their work as they progress and providing the ability for them to look back at earlier drafts of their work, to allow for reflection on their thinking and learning process. I like the fact that technology is not the only aspect of this program. Students are asked to communicate and collaborate with their peers, to share their questions and their breakthroughs, so that the essential factor of human interaction is not lost in this program.