When I reflect upon my own learning as a child, I remember the stuff that was fun. Like the science experiments we did where nobody knew what the heck was going to happen. Or the video projects that I did in my history class, where we had to create something from nothing. In welding class we got to be creative and make a unique piece of art (after learning the basics, of course).
What do these all have in common? CHAOS! These projects enabled students to follow interests and explore. Were mistakes made? Yes. Did projects always go as planned? No. However, the reason that these projects still stick with me is because I learned how to enjoy exploring. It is about being inquisitive, and then digging for the answer.
Connectivism and the ISTE standards take the idea of being inquisitive and interested in a subject, and connecting it to the amazing technology that is available to us. Connectivism asks us to challenge our thinking on ideas like “memorization”. Is it a priority in 2017 to memorize state capitals? Should students be able to recite all U.S. presidents in order? As an adult in my mid-thirties, I can honestly say that I have probably forgotten over half of the presidents and state capitals. I can also say that it has no affect on my life.
The best teachers I ever had taught me how to explore. We live in the best time period ever to be an inquisitive person. It is time for schools to break out of the old paradigm of education, and start to connect with kids in a way that is valuable to their live
Hey Mike,
ReplyDeleteGood luck with having complete and total chaos in your classroom!
I can totally see how you can give students in your art class the opportunity to explore and discover to help them learn and grow. I tend to avoid messiness. But I realize that often it is in those messy places that the most enriching engagement happens.
Also, if knowing state capitals and the presidents has never helped you, we need to have a trivia night. Then we'll see! :)