INQUIRING MINDS WANT TO KNOW
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Role of Technology in Inquiry-Based Learning (Page 3)
Technology can be used to help students organize and edit information, such as through word processing software or Kidspiration software. Kidspiration is a software program to be used as a visual thinking tool that to help students build graphic organizers by combining pictures, text and spoken words to represent thoughts and information. University Professors Shaw, Bagget, and Salyer (2004) stated, “Ideas that are sequential or hierarchical as well as random and brainstormed may be portrayed in graphic organizers, concept maps, or knowledge webs” (p.4).
Professors Shaw, Bagget, and Salyer (2004) conducted a science-technology study in Alabama with two fifth-grade students. The two students were presented a problem to solve, various materials to use in conducting an experiment, as well as a laptop computer with Kidspiration software installed. The students had been given time to explore the features of Kidspiration prior to the day of the study. Shaw et. al (2004) found “that the integration of the technology was very motivating to the students…. and that the students were easily able to revise and edit their representations” (p. 6). Shaw et. al (2004) further added that “the integration of Kidspiration provided a tool for inquiry, investigation, communication, and the creation of products representing the students’ knowledge structure” (p. 7).
As an educator, it is my job to help prepare my students with the necessary skills for achievement and success in school, as well as for the future. Through the integration of technology with inquiry-based learning I will be able to prepare my students with the knowledge and skills they need. According to the report, Learning for the 21st Century. “Students need to learn academic content though real-world examples, applications and experiences both inside and outside the school. Students understand and retain more when their learning is relevant, engaging and meaningful to their lives” (p.4). The report further added,
To cope with the demands of the 21st century, people need to know more than core subjects. They need to know how to use their knowledge and skills- by thinking critically, applying knowledge to new situations, analyzing information, comprehending new ideas, communicating, collaborating, solving problems, making decisions. (p. 9)
Resources:
Boethel, M., & Dimock, K. (1999). Constructing knowledge with technology. Retrieved June 17, 2006, from http://www.sedl.org/pubs/tec27/constructing.pdf (PDF File, 203KB)
Dodge, B. (1997a). Some thoughts about WebQuests. Retrieved July 5, 2005, from http://webquest.sdsu.edu/about_webquests.html
Dodge, B. (1997b). The WebQuest page. Retrieved July 5, 2005, from http://edweb.sdsu.edu/people/bdodge/Professional.html
Getting America’s Students Ready for the 21st Century: Meeting the Technology Literacy Challenge
Kidspiration Software http://kidspiration.com/productinfo/kidspiration/index.cfm
Learning for the 21st Century: A Report and Mile Guide for 21st Century Skills
Owens, R.F., Hester, J.L. & Teale, W.H. (2002). Where do you want to go today? Inquiry-based learning and technology integration. The Reading Teacher, 55(7), 616-625. Retrieved July 3, 2006, from Wilson SelectPlus database.
Shaw, E., Bagget, P., & Sayler, B. (2004). Kidspiration for inquiry-centered activities. Science Activities, 4(1), 3-8. Retrieved July 15, 2005, from Wilson SelectPlus database.
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