Cognitivism in Practice
In his lecture, Dr. Michael Orey explained the information processing model in the cognitive learning theory. In this model, when a student is exposed to new information through sensory input, the information is then moved to short term/working memory, and then through further processing it is moved to long term memory. Dr. Orey then went on to explain that when information is presented while integrating multiple senses, deeper learning takes place (Laureate Education, Inc., 2010). The more connections that can be made by students through images, sounds, emotions, and text, the greater the chances are that the information can be cemented into long term memory.
This week’s reading provided me with two instructional strategies that fit directly into the cognitive learning theory. They are cues, questions, and advance organizers and summarizing and note taking. When students use cues, questions, and advanced organizers, they are exercising their ability to retrieve, use, and organize information (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Using different types of advance organizers help students to understand and keep focus on the information that is being presented. Summarizing and note taking help students to synthesize information (Pitler, Hubbell, Kuhn, & Malenoski, 2007). Teachers can use various types of note taking plans and summary frames with students. Students can also use their summaries and notes to teach each other the information again.
There are numerous ways to integrate technology into the strategies mentioned above. Word processing, spreadsheets, online concept mapping tools, multimedia, wikis, and online resource are just to name a few. They can help teachers to involve students in their learning in a far grander scale. Virtual field trips are yet another way to help access multiple senses. The episodic experiences help to build the critical connections that aid students in storing new information.
I am very excited to begin to use the strategies with the technology I learned about this week. I think it will be very exciting to see the benefits of adding new technology to strategies I am already using, such as concept mapping. My students seem to enjoy concept mapping and I am sure they will like it even more when we complete it online.
Resources:
Laureate Education, Inc. (Executive Producer). (2010). Program five. Cognitive learning theory [Webcast]. Bridging learning theory, instruction and technology. Baltimore, MD: Author.
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E. R., & Kuhn, M. (2007). Using Technology with Classroom Instruction That Works . Alexandria: ASCD.
Hi Dawn,
ReplyDeleteWill your students be completing their concept map with you or independently? I am excited to do this activity with my students also. My students are only 7 and 8 years old, so I will be quite involved with creating the maps. In the future, I wonder if I could link up with an older grade to have this be a collaborative effort between students.
Agree with your comments on note taking and summarizing. Students can indeed share their learning experiences and with the help of communication technology such as wiki and blog, peer teaching can be easily achieved, in and out of classroom setting.
ReplyDeleteDawn,
ReplyDeleteStudents taking notes to share on a wiki or blog is a great way to use these strategies. I actually made my own graphic organizer map today on word with colors and different shapes. I had never really explored beyond the basic circle and line with word. It was actually pretty fun. Using the different color coding will be particularly helpful with some of my students. I'd like to hear what type of online concept mapping program you are using. Your enthusiasm is contagious.
I am using Bubbl. I found it to be very easy to use. I am frustrated becasue I am not sure how to allow others to view my concept map. I think it may be a pay version that allows others to see our work. I started the concept map on the Smart Board and then allowed my 6th graders to take over. They loved doing the map, it was so much more exciting than paper and pencil mapping.
ReplyDelete