There have been many forms of learning and teaching discussed throughout Transforming Learning with New Technologies. One of these forms that have been discussed consistently throughout the chapters is problem-based learning. This type of learning uses real-world situations and issues to actively engage students. Problem-based learning incorporates students' own interests, which makes problem solving and inquiry learning extremely engaging at every grade level. Students will investigate problems, issues, and questions to which the have no set answer. They'll do so using a process of asking questions, assembling evidence, drawing conclusions, and evaluating the results. This form of learning peaks my interest because it seems like an awesome way to keep students engaged and interested. Personally, I plan on becoming a second grade elementary school teacher, and I would love to incorporate this form of learning. Children who ask questions are taking an active role in their own learning, which means that they will be that much more interested on the subject being discussed. This form of learning is great for all classroom environments, depending on the lesson at had. Since I am working with children this would be a fun form of learning, for most lesson plans. I look forward to using this for of problem-based learning in the future.
Another form of learning described in the book is stealth learning. In stealth learning students learn without realizing that they are learning because the academic information is hidden in the activities of the games. The games I am referring too are simulation games, which are games that dynamically represent real world processes and systems. In these simulations students are placed in computer generated settings where they have to make a decisions and experience the consequences. Stealth learning is a great way to get middle school students and high school students to interact and become interested in the material. These simulations allow students to go on online adventures while they are learning pre algebra or even geography. Some of these games last a short amount of time , while others take longer to complete. The teacher can decided what format best fits the classroom, but there are many short stimulations for every grade level. Personally, I do not think I would use this form of learning as a teacher because of the grade level I plan on entering, but I could always change my mind. I do find these stimulations very interesting and intriguing. Students are basically entering virtual worlds and learning every step of the way.
The final point that caught my eye is digital games for learning, which is not a specific form of learning but it can be used towards learning. These digital games are computer and web-based games that have been designed with educational, instead of entertainment goals, in mind. There is a significant difference, for many students, between playing video games and taking classes in school. Students see games are active, challenging, and demanding of focus and concentration for problem solving, but students see school as passive and uninspiring . Therefor, educational games will peak a students interest while allowing them to focus on school work. I one hundred percent approve of educational games being used in the classroom. Nowadays all kids focus on is their video games, and tend to avoid their school work, but digital games for learning allow them to learn while focusing on the problems and having fun. Overall sounds like a great tool for most to all age and grade levels!
Citations:
Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.
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