This course has challenge my thinking tremendously, but in the end, the largest impact has been the positive effects of play! Wohlwen
(2015) states that “increasing standardization of curriculum restricts the
variety of ways they could and should be learning (page 22).” The Common Core
has a model of rigor in literacy and mathematics, that forces a reduction of
playtime. Play increases student's ability to problem solve, cope with stress, and apply new skills.
I love this picture on stages of development. Pinterest.com has a host of ideas of incorporating play into the curriculum!
Another reliable source has always been Dr. Seuss. I love these quotes on education. They are encouraging, inspirational, and right on time! Dr. Seuss always provides a meaningful message, though the presentation is fun to students. He uses his imagination to create worlds of characters who work through situations. Schools should provide the same opportunities for students to imagine, create, and explore character development.
With technology in being an abundance in today's society, early education classrooms must be a reflection. The internet has so many sites and resources that may be awesome for early learning, though students at times struggle to type in long web addresses. Monitoring students on devices may also be difficult at times. This is why I believe that QR codes are an efficient and innovative way for students to learn.
A QR code stands for quick response code that when scanned, takes you to a variety of text-based experiences. Students may complete scavenger hunts with QR codes. In my classroom, we are currently learning about the roots of modern day democracy and its roots in Athens, Greece. Now many of my students were unenthused until I gave them the devices with the Wimo application. My students completed a democratic webquest where they scanned codes that took them to pre-selected sites, completed activities, and had fun while doing so. Some of my third graders had their own devices and were able to download the scanner app to complete school work. This was my trial run, but since then, my students have been eager to come to school and complete tasks!
This is an innovated approach because it is the answer to modern learning. Students are able to safely navigate the internet and take charge of their learning. QR scanners allow students progress at their own rate as well as monitor their learning. The integration of technology makes students more excited to learn. I have found that the use of technology in my classroom helps students with character development as they are more cooperative and willing to work together if it is necessary that they share a device. I have used quick response codes for reading, social studies, and math. I have not been as successful with science simply because I like for science lessons to be hands on or project based. How would you use the QR code in your classroom to enhance development?
Here are some ways that QR codes may be used in the classroom:
MATH
Students can check their answers during guided math without interrupting others
Social Studies
This is the search I used last week!
Here are some helpful sites to help get started using QR codes in the classroom.
