Blog Post E: Chapter 7

Concept 1 - One of the topics discussed in this chapter is problem solving with students of all ages. As a person that works with elementary school kids, I agree that problem solving is a huge social and mental skill that should be taught as soon as possible. Due to the fact that problem solving has become popular learning method used throughout the classroom. Problem solving allows students to build relationships, but also helps them think for themselves rather than relying on someone else t do the work for them. I have seen first hand the effects a child has when not able to solve problems, they become frustrated easily and are likely to give up after a short period of time.

Concept 2 - Another concept in this chapter discusses higher order and lower order thinking. The textbook explains lower order thinking as students being able to memorize or reproduce knowledge without problem solving. Higher order thinking is solving problems that promote new understandings. I think as educators, we need to be able to accommodate both thinking levels and have an understanding on how both operate. I learned that spelling words are an example of lower level thinking due to the memorizing that is associated with it. Which I now see fitted more towards elementary school aged kids due to the lack of problem solving involved with it.

Concept 3- The last concept I chose in this chapter is about computer games. I love the use of computers as a means of learning. Computer games are defined in the book as, computer, video, and web based game software applications that are immensely popular among children and adolescents today. I think computer games are an excellent way to teach students, they provide a new and creative way to teach students. Also computer games give students another way to learn besides always hearing the teacher teach a lesson. I loved using computer games to learn, they allowed my the opportunity to focus and let my competitive side show.

Wordle.net created Courtney Lewis

 

 

 

Maloy, R. (2011). Teaching Information and Digital Literacy. In Transforming learning with new technologies (Second ed.). Boston: Pearson/Allyn and Bacon.