Jigsaw Approach

Computers can greatly aid teaching and learning but they are not always available. What can an educator do to work around a lack of this resource? One proposed method is called "Jigsaw". With this approach, split students into diverse groups of 5 or six and then assign each group a leader. Continue by breaking down the lesson and having each student research a certain part. Once they have gotten their information form temporary "expert groups" by gathering the students together that researched the same part so they can discuss amongst themselves. Next, reform the groups and have each student present their part. Finish by observing the groups and prompting the group leader to solve any problems that may come up. Finally, give a quiz or somehow use the material to solidify what was learned.
In my own classroom, I would use this approach to work in teams to research and plan a backpacking trip in German speaking countries. Students would decide on a certain area then individually research things such as local food establishments, events, historical sites, seasonal activities ect. In the end each group would give a mini presentation on the backpacking trip they planned. It would produce a stonger response from the students because they would bond with each other through the excitement they share while dreaming of future travel. Instead of students only participating half-heartedly, they would feed off of each other's energy and ideas to make a more impactful experience.
A possible disadvantage could be seen in trying to manage the interacts between different personalities. Shy or difficult students, who are not accustomed to working in groups, might act out or shut down. The faster learning students might get bored and tune out. The key is in the group leaders and expert groups. These keep order and make sure everyone is getting the information they need. It is also important to alternate roles when using this approach on different occasions.

Back to the Future

At the dawn of the computer age people had many different ideas about what role this new technology would play. But what was agreed upon is the fact that computers would revolutionize the future, in education particularly.

Some correctly believed computers would permeate the school/home boundary, making it possible to keep up with class, even when sick at home, by instantly sending information via the internet. There was the idea of widespread use of data bases for research. This is very true for most students when it comes to writing a research paper today. Also, it was predicted people could operate technology hands-free with voice commands with an artificial voice response.

Some other predictions weren't quite as accurate, such as directly linking absent students into a class with a video conference and chatting. And while we do have things such as Siri, I wouldn't take it as far as to say she is "artificial intelligence" like some believed would be used.

It is interesting to see what predictions were correct and which weren't. With the future holding so many variables, what predictions could we make these days about the use of technology in the classrooms of tomorrow?





http://itechfuture.com/future-technology-devices-computers/





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