Example of Learning with Technology with Constructivist Models

I take Typhoon as the example in my discussion of the e-learning activity. The learning objectives of the e-learning website are very clear that students learn about typhoon, including, its formation, hazards and how to combat the hazards. The activity is presented in the Active Lessons way.

Active Lessons are engaging, technology-based, student-centered learning activities designed by teachers.( Churchill, 2005) Its idea is to empower teachers to easily create technology-based activities that draw upon variety of existing and new digital resources from Internet, repositories of learning objects and other sources, and require students to use technology and create artifacts demonstrating their understanding. (Churchill, 2005)

The e-learning website provides students with an authentic scenario for learning. Students are required to imagine that they write a disaster management plan for the Philippines government. A variety of resources are provided, such as pictures and URLs. Working templates are also provided to scaffold students’ approach to think and finish the tasks.

I think that it is an example of learning with technology with constructivist models. In this case, technology is acted as a tool in learning activities. The students are required to enquiry and solve problems (tasks). The construction of knowledge involves personal discoveries.

My Comments

‘Typhoon’ provides a clear and sufficient guideline for students to finish the learning activities. I think it is also a good example for teachers how to use technology in their teaching as it involves some basic computer skills (simple homepage, Microsoft Word) that most teachers can handle. No complex computer skills, such as flash and programming involved.