Hi everyone, I’m Amy Perrin. I am your discussion leader
for the final week! I have really enjoyed reading everyone’s thoughts and ideas
throughout the semester, and I can’t wait to get your input this week as well.
I chose one brief article and one video (both related to Zull chapters 11 &
12) that I’d like to discuss with everyone.
In chapter 11, Zull discusses the need for students to
test their ideas in a concrete way in order to complete the learning process. Testing
ideas could take many forms: discussion, writing, research using technology,
experiment.
In chapter 12, Zull recognizes the need for students to take control of their own learning. Zull discusses how motivation stems from learning, which is an intrinsic motivation rather than extrinsic. Students learn and become motivated when they encounter things that connect with their own lives and experiences.
The article that I chose is just a brief list of 40 ideas for alternative assessment strategies:
1.
Before now, have you considered the fact that we
need to allow students to test their ideas rather than just hand them our
ideas?
2.
Do you think that any of these alternative
assessments could help students complete the learning process more than a
“traditional” test?
3.
Would you consider using any of these alternative
assessments in your classroom?
4.
Do you think there is an over emphasis on
standardized/traditional testing (are we too focused on answers rather than the
knowledge)?
5.
Please feel free to discuss any connections you
made between the alternative assessment suggestions and Zull chapters 11 &
12.
The video is a TED talk given by Salman Khan, creator of
Khan Academy. The video is about 20 minutes long (I apologize), but it is very
interesting!
1.
What are your general thoughts on the video?
2.
What are your thoughts on the flipped classroom
model (videos/internet research as homework and working problems during class)?
3.
Do you think that the flipped classroom model
would allow for a more personalized curriculum for individual students
(students could have input as to how they actively test their ideas)?
4.
Khan Academy will generate similar questions
until you get a certain number in a row correct, then you move on to more
advanced problems. Do you think using a program such as this could help
students succeed in learning and consequently become more intrinsically
motivated?
5.
Again, please feel free to discuss any
connections you made between the video and Zull chapters 11 & 12.
