Tuesday, 26 May 2020

ICT as co-constructive tool


Under constructive tool, we learned about the meaning of constructive tool, importance and how to integrate the constructive tool followed by some examples. From that I clearly understand that co-constructive tool is applications that support the construction of knowledge through a shared understanding, collaboratively sharing or combining ideas. It emphasizes on collaboration and partnership working. It includes process such as cooperation and coordination. Some of the examples of co-constructive tool are: Google docs (docs.google.com), Blogs, Electronic white board and discussion forum on portals (pce.edu.bt).
Figure 2: Blog


Figure 1: Google docs

         
   


From various examples from co-constructive tool, we were taught about creating Google docs. Google Docs is a free Web-based application in which documents and spreadsheets can be created, edited and stored online. Multiple users can edit a document at the same time, while seeing each others' changes instantaneously. It also has a source that allows users to produce text documents  presentation, spreadsheets, and more.

Based on this tool, our tutor told us to plan an integrated lesson plan in a group of three members using Google docs. We are asked to choose any topic from the grade IV-VI.  After that I create Google docs and invite friend to discuss on how we are going to make the lesson plan. I also invite our tutor to comment on our discussion. While using Google docs I was able to read and comment as soon as my friends share their work with me.  I also found myself giving more feedback and contribute to the discussion. Moreover, it also helps us to work cooperatively and construct a shared understanding of new knowledge. The link given below will take you through the lesson plan that we have created together.









Through my experience of using Google docs, I can say that it is very useful for all the students and teachers especially to college students as most of the time we have to do group work. I found Google docs are more convenient and effective. It provide us opportunity to do collaborative work, get feedback in real time, share our documents on the web and brainstorm as a team We can do our work at anytime from anywhere. We need not have to gather in order to complete our task. Moreover, teachers can also see who all did the work sincerely and give comments and feedback's accordingly. Therefore, using ICT as a co-constructive tool for teaching and learning can be one way we can use to ensure that students learn with fun and ease. 
                           
                               Thank you











Tuesday, 5 May 2020

Reflection on ICT as Constructive Tool


ICT as constructive tool can be used in constructing their knowledge through experience and manipulating information. Constructivism promotes social and communication skills by creating a classroom environment that emphasizes collaboration and exchange of ideas. Application of both theoretical input and practical knowledge is the integral part of constructivism. It believes that all knowledge is constructed on the basis of pre-existing knowledge. Examples of constructive tool are electronic bulletin board, simulation, MS publisher, social networking sites (blog, facebook, and twitter).


A social net work is defined as a chain of individuals and their personal connection and social networking is the practice of social connects by making connections through individual, often through social media such as facebook, blog and twitter.  Depending on social media platform, members may be able to connect any other member. Social networking services are interactive. Learner can post a topic, discuss critical ideas and help retain knowledge in a central place. Through social network, exchanging information with colleagues can create their own meaning by manipulating the information that they get.

Constructive tool can be integrated in various ways in teaching and learning. Following are some of the methods to integrate constructive tool.   
  • Teacher can create something new way to deliver the lesson using constructive tool like PowerPoint, simulation, word or work sheet.
  •  Teacher can use it for assessing children’s learning by giving feedback and comment.
  •  The application such as word spread sheet and PowerPoint are also seen to help learners in building new knowledge on their prior knowledge.
  • Letting students to use basic technology tool to create a brain storm or concept map for their work or any other subject matter.

 Based on this tool we are given an activity to create a PowerPoint simulation which was to advocate my village as a tourist agent to attract tourist. Creating a PowerPoint simulation was something that I heard for the first time and this task was bit difficult for me and I nearly gave up on it.  As I began to browse information on simulation and how it should be created, I found myself exploring the different features available in PowerPoint presentation particularly the animation features. It has made me explore and practice which in turn helped me gain interest in construction my own learning.

Simulation
Therefore, there are many benefits of constructivism in the classroom as it creates an active, engaging environment for children. Instead of being passive listeners, children through discussion and collaboration foster critical thinking and independent learners, it constitutes a shift from teacher to learner centered pedagogy and it helps learners to adopt, explore and practice.