Gina Hicks

LS521 sm 02

06/12/02

Article Critique #2

Williams, K. (2001). “Building Knowledge” [Electronic Version] Electronic School: The School Technology Authority, January 2002. Retrieved 06/11/02 from http://electronic-school.com/2002/01/0101f7.html

What type of activity would entice middle school students to work during their lunch? Katherine Williams, author of “Building Knowledge,” combined technology with constructivist teaching practices to create such an activity. Using a team approach, the students were asked to design cost-effective and ecologically sensitive road projects on imaginary regional maps. The students worked on their maps at lunch for two weeks! Ms. Williams believes that the use of technology has helped her move from teacher-centered, direct teaching methods to a more student-centered, problem-based approach. This activity had students working collaboratively on a real-life issue involving their own community. They used a great deal of problem solving throughout the project. The activity also gave the students an opportunity to use a variety of technology. Some of the students utilized multimedia/presentation software, scanners, digital cameras and videos with music. As a final assessment, each group presented their multimedia presentation in front of their class council. The author concludes the article by stating key problem solving skills she thinks every grade level should be taught. These skills encourage both creative and critical thinking. She states that using technology in isolation won’t help students with these skills. She believes technology and best teaching practices must go hand-in-hand to achieve a strong educational base.

I agree with the importance of teaching critical and creative thinking skills in an integrated approach across all disciplines. It makes sense to include technology as a means of supporting best teaching practices in any way possible. The author’s use of real-life problems enhances her ability to make the technology and curriculum connections. I also think she must be very comfortable using each of the pieces of technology mentioned in the article, or she must have an incredible support staff. I don’t know many teachers that could offer their students the use of scanners, digital cameras and computer videoing and also be able to help them use this equipment. Her example of this model lesson is exactly what should be available to all students when presented with a research project or presentation to complete. I hope to continue to expand my knowledge of technology so that I can offer these same opportunities to future students.