Our students are crying out for a change in how and what we teach them.
ITSE National Educational Technology standard number one (NETS-S) deals with creativity and innovation. Creativity and innovation are huge buzzwords these days in the working world. Just Google “creativity and innovation” and you will find numerous services, books and classes to increase both. Creativity and innovation are not necessarily innate, both can be learned. I found an interesting site that really opened my eyes to how important both creativity and innovation are in the workplace today. I was especially fascinated by Hewlett Packard’s philosophy for fostering an environment of creativity and innovation. How interesting would it be to tweak that for a classroom environment?
According to this NET-S standard, students should be able to:
-apply existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products or processes
-create original works as a means of personal or group expression]
-use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues
-identify trends and forecast possibilities
Basically, this standard deals with using problem solving and critical thinking skills to solve real world problems. This is a recurring theme in education. These are also addressed in the 21st Century Framework for Learning.
Obviously we live in a world very different than the world that many of us grew up in. Our students must be prepared to do much more than just regurgitate information and have knowledge. (This is the kind of education I received) Our students must be able to use information and transform their world.
HOW CAN I HELP MY STUDENTS ACHIEVE THIS STANDARD?
Next year I will be teaching a unit on weather. I am planning on trying the “Monster Storms” curriculum from the Jason Project. My students will have the opportunity to use real world data from a hurricane and make predictions on when and where the storm will hit. They will then use this information to determine what precautions/evacuations should take place and the implications and repercussions that this type of storm would have on a community. It is just a start, but it is a start. I will let you all know how it goes.
Kris, the video you have posted here is a real eye opener. For me I could only think of all the ways I have not yet challenged my students to think on their own or be creative. What have my students been missing out on? Well, not any more. I want my students to be able to do and apply their knowledge. Thanks for the inspiration.
ReplyDeleteGreat Post Kris - that video is very powerful. Maybe if your lesson goes well you'll win a Jason's awards! =)
ReplyDeleteSomething like that video would be a great final project if someone wanted to explore any of the course material for their final by creating a video.
AWESOME! That video gave me the shivers and seriously made me think about my students and how I need to CONSTANTLY make sure that my kids are engaged in one way or another while they learn.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to hear how your Jason Project goes. When we did our presentation in the last class I became intrigued by the problem solving, critical thinking, and collaborative process of this particular application.
Overall I was really excited about all of this information and my brain is whirring. Thanks Kris
It's always awesome to see the student's perspective!
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