Welcome back everybody, this week we will be exploring the micro:bit and constructionism.
Constructionism refers to the idea that students learn most effectively when they are actively doing and constructing a meaningful product (Papert and Harel, 1991). Constructionism emphasises the importance of a hands-on learning experience for students and as such student creativity is fostered in the classroom as students actively participate in problem solving, creating, and The Maker Movement.
The Maker Movement encourages students to create, collaborate and communicate with each other using design thinking to build on their understanding and prior knowledge (Schad and Jones, 2019). When ideas come to life, students are motivated by the design process.
The micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that can be used in various ways. Students are required to code sequences for their prototype in order for the micro:bit to work correctly. Teachers can use constructionism in a variety of ways, such as Stage 3 Science and Technology classes, where the syllabus requires students to “defines problems, and designs, modifies and follows algorithms to develop solutions” (NESA, 2017, p.16). For example, students can create a prototype water filter using the Micro:bit which can bring a container forward, sliding water into plants on a timed setting. Additionally, in STEM classes students can use a constructionism pedagogy when planning and testing their ideas to create practical solutions for their designs. Students develop creativity when shown visually rather than being told how to create something (Sternberg and Williams, 1996). By teachers guiding and supporting students, students will foster creativity when developing their own designs.
Coding is beneficial for students to learn from a young age as it boosts problem solving skills, improves computational thinking, teaches creativity, encourages persistence, and builds digital literacy skills (7 reasons why kids should learn to code, 2020). When students program, they are constantly encouraged to experiment, and as such through trial-and-error and constructivism they can create workable solutions to their problems and designs.
There are many benefits of The Maker Movement, however challenges can arise when using the micro:bit that need to be accounted for. Coding can be challenging for students and may result in student disengagement. Thus, teachers need to effectively manage makerspace-based classes, guiding and assisting students with using the micro:bit to ensure they are engaged and able to work independently.
References:
Papert, S., & Harel, I. (1991). Situating constructionism. constructionism, 36(2), 1-11.
Schad, M., & Jones, W. M. (2020). The maker movement and education: A systematic review of the literature. Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 52(1), 65-78.
Science and Technology K-6 syllabus - educationstandards.nsw.edu.au. Science and Technology K–6 Syllabus 2017. (n.d.). Retrieved April 7, 2023, from https://www.educationstandards.nsw.edu.au/wps/wcm/connect/5ab69646-f1d4-404b-9c16-b39dfb0986d3/science-and-technology-k-6-syllabus-2017.pdf?MOD=AJPERES&CVID=
Sternberg, R. J., & Williams, W. M. (1996). How to develop student creativity. ASCD.
NA. (2020, November 25). 7 reasons why kids should learn to code. UT Austin Boot Camps. Retrieved April 7, 2023, from https://techbootcamps.utexas.edu/blog/why-kids-should-learn-to-code/
Hi Gemma,
Well done on another really engaging and interesting blog. Your detailed explanation of what Constructionism and the Maker Movement, was super informative and are really effective in providing information of why Constructionism and the Maker Movement should be included in the education context. Your connection between your example and the syllabus was really great. I also really like how you have gone into a lot of detail about coding as it plays a big part in the creation of your example. Overall, I really enjoyed reading your blog.
Thanks,
Olivia Spanswick
12/04/23
Hi Gemma,
Just like the others, this was another amazing and informative blog.
You went into extensive detail to explain what Constructionism and The Maker Movement was, which was very informative. You've connected the project we done in our tutorial of measuring the soil moisture and designing a method where the soil will be watered accordingly, to the stage 3 science and technology syllabus which is great. You've effectively researched the the pros and cons of using the process of coding, when students design their own creations.
Thank you for the blog, it was very enjoyable to read,
Djoumana Aoun
Hi Gemma!
Well done on your last post! It is really enjoyable and easy to read with lots of considerations for us future teachers. I think you have done really well to meet all of the criteria points and have provided really through information. I really have no suggestions for you to add to your post, I love how energy in the post and the also love your colour choice for the website.
Good luck in the assignment (don’t think you will need it tho)!
Emma W
Hi Gemma! Great job on another excellent blog post! I always enjoy keeping up with your blog as it always is well thought out and engaging. I really like your idea for a lesson in the classroom, and its always good to see what limitations there are for technology.
Great job!
09/04/2023
Hey Gemma,
As always I love your post, my only suggestion is to change your writing to more engaging blog post I feel like it is wordy and there is some areas you could synthesise. Other than that what a wonderful post you have made :)
Thanks,
Imijin
8.04