Chapter 7 learning log

What?

Knowledge Construction - This chapter is a follow-up to chapter 6. While we discussed the theory of cognition and how believers of such theory think that students learn, chapter 7 has discussed practical strategies that we can implement. Chapter 6 touched on the idea of constructivism – the strategies used to keep information in long-term memory. Chapter 7 has gone deeper into this strategy and also talks about knowledge construction and how to change misconceptions.
We also discussed how all of this fits into a social situation. We learned about concepts like community of learners, social constructivism, and worldview. This adds an important dimension to the theory of cognition.

So What?

This chapter is chalk full of strategies that we can implement into our instruction. For example, when trying to correct misconceptions that our students may have, it is important to be encouraging to students so they do not become resentful or shut off to our teachings. Their knowledge, if it is misguided, still needs to be respected. The best way to encourage them to fix misconceptions is to present the information as a contradiction to their present knowledge. Then the student has to make a choice and rethink his/her current concept.
We also need to understand our students' own worldview and how that may be a small and even misguided perception. In using community of learners and authentic activities, we can help grow their worldview in size and maturity.

Now What?

This is truly one of the most helpful and practical chapters in this book to me. I plan on implementing many of the strategies discussed herein. The strongest of which is probably authentic activities. While they may be difficult to come up with, I am confident that it will be a strong learning tool for my students.
Authentic activities are rooted in real world problems. This should make them relatable to the students. The learning activity becomes relevant and real to them, and therefore they are more motivated to learn it. Also, often times in doing authentic activities, students take part in learning without even knowing it.