One of the
most valuable strategies in the science classroom can be the use of and
creating of models to discover and explore abstract concepts. As students, either through guided or open
inquiries create they are solidifying their understanding of new concepts. The triumphs come when students truly
visualize the concept and develop an understanding deep enough to communicate
their new knowledge with others.
The biggest
challenges are students’ perception and available resources. The lack of materials can definitely impede a
students’ creativity. Teachers must
continually remind students the model is just that. A representation of what might be happening. In some cases the model may not be an
absolute. This problem is being lessened
by the use of real-world technology now available in the educational learning
environment.
Having a "lack of resources", can truly impede our students and their efforts of learning. As the demand for technology increases in educational institutions, most inner city schools lack the funds and resources to produce the amount of 21st century technology to maintain our students ability to be competitive. Educator's find themselves improvising with what they have to ensure learners are getting that constant flow of information; combing real-world situations, teacher curriculum, and technology to secure success as students move beyond to the next level.
ReplyDeleteScience is so great to teach because we can use many different things to get our ideas across. Sometimes I think that is the most challenging part of the job. Thinking of new ways to get students to understand something. Whether it is because of a lack of funds or because the students are not getting the material any other way, using various models can bring students to enlightenment about an area of study.
ReplyDelete