All of the four instructional models use the Internet as a major tool in the learning of the students. Internet workshops and Internet inquiries involve students independently accessing information and working, then after gathering the information sharing it with peers and the instructor. These methods allow students the practice to access information independently, while still allowing the instructor to guide the student. Using bookmarks is important because as Leu (2002) says it “limits random surfing and exploration of sites unrelated to your unit, an important child safety issue, especially in the younger grade levels.”
The Internet project model is more under the control of the instructor, as is the WebQuest. These models allow the instructor to guide the learning more hands on. These models can allow the students practice working in groups, both large and small. For some of the projects mentioned by Leu in his videos, it would be possible to break the class into small groups, while other projects would require or be easier with the whole class working in unison.
All of the models have uses, but the WedQuest is something that would be useful for factual learning or assessments, but not for understanding. This could be used in lower grades to teach broad facts or ideas, but it is hard to see this model providing students with deep understanding.
The Internet project is something engaging and different for students, but I can’t see it being something useful for teaching major concepts or even really being useful in higher levels of education.
An Internet workshop would be a good tool to use with younger students while an Internet inquiry would be useful for older students, due to the need for more research on the part of the student. An Internet inquiry also allows for more freedom of choice, an important part of engaging older students.
Leu, D.J., Jr. (2002, February). Internet Workshop: Making time for literacy [Exploring Literacy on the Internet department]. The Reading Teacher, 55(5). Available: http://www.readingonline.org/electronic/RT/2-02_column/
You present an interesting perspective on how each model should be integrated into the curriculum, and at what age... I have just a few remarks related to those comments...
ReplyDeleteFirst - the WebQuest can definitely be an online tool for understanding. It really is up to the educator to design the WebQuest in a way that will increase student understanding, rather than just be a place for "factual learning" as you call it.
The Internet Project is actually a great model for use with older kids because you can teach them a concept through real-world simulation or real-world activities. The Journey North site, for example, is a great way to learn about the migration of various animals by actually studying them in context. A similar project could be created for use in 9-12 grades.
Finally, the Internet Workshop is great for all ages - as it provides a quick way to integrate an online resource (or resources) in the classroom.
Great job using APA formatting!!
The only two things I see missing are a connection to the classroom - and there is no mention of the technology in your placement.
I haven't finalized my placement yet so I have no idea about what technology is available in my classes yet. I also added the link to my Diigo list to the rubric, sorry about that.
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