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Engaged Learning Simulation

In this activity participants play the role of a K-12 student. As participants take part in a technology-integrated lesson they will be considering the lesson from the perspectives of the student and the instructor. A whole group debriefing follows the lesson simulation.

  1. Explain to participants that they will be spending the next 30 minutes in an engaged learning simulation.

  2. Introduce the Educator Objectives.

    As educators, participants will work to meet the following objectives:
    • Define constructivist learning
    • Discuss the merits and challenges of collaborative/cooperative learning
    • Provide examples of classroom environments that support technology-enhanced engaged learning
    • Evaluate the current use of technology (for learning) in classroom/school
    • Articulate a vision for technology integration/infusion into learning opportunities for all students

  3. Explain that participants will also think about the engaged learning simulation from the point of view of students. As a student, reflect on the following aspects of the lesson:
    • Opportunities for active engagement
    • Interest of the content and activities
    • Opportunities for collaboration
    • Range and variety of the topics studied
    • Technologies used in the lessons
    • Relevance of the content to students' lives

  4. Connecting Representations of Functions lesson procedures are available at http://www.ohiorc.org/cor/LESSONS/functions/Default.aspx.

    Participants will use a graphing calculator and CBR for hands-on learning in the following activity:
    1. Using the URL http://www.esc4.net/math/index.htm, participants will spend approximately 60 minutes with the graphing calculator and CBR tutorial (30 minutes each device) and online exercises.
    2. Module facilitator will have each participant use a computer to access the URL and click on the link for graphing calculator first, then move on to the link for the CBR. Students will individually follow the instructions given by each device activity. This should take no more than 60 minutes.

  5. Use the following questions for debriefing participants. Record responses for each question on the corresponding Engaged Learning Simulation PowerPoint slides (Engaged Learning Simulation.ppt). As an alternative to PowerPoint slides, responses could be recorded on chart paper, overhead, or white board/chalk board.
    • What are some of the characteristics of engaged learning?
    • What are some of the challenges to providing an engaged learning environment for students?
    • What role did technology play in the lesson?
    • How could the lesson be extended?
    • How could the lesson be improved?

This activity is adapted from the Ohio LIT curriculum. For more information about the Ohio LIT project visit http://www.etech.ohio.gov/programs/ohiolit/index.jsp.