Problem Based Learning

Problem based learning has to deal with critical thinking skills, problem solving skills and inquiry skills which students use to explore and discover real world problems. These three skills are very crucial in helping children to solve problems whether they are open ended or close-ended.

Problem solving among students must be considered and supported by teachers. There are a number of things that teachers can consider in helping students to become better problem solvers. These include strategies such as trial and error, the process of illimination, making models, using formulas, acting out problems, using graphics or drawings, discovering patterns and trying to simplify problems.

If the strategies listed are implemented in the correct way students can gain numerous benefits. One such benefit is that students will be more engaged in their learning and empowered to become more autonomous in classroom work. Students can also benefit from Problem based learning as it can act as a way of developing better language skills especially through problems that require a high level of interaction with others.

Critical thinking refers to the ability to make good decisions and support those decisions. Critical thinking can be developed in children from a tender age. To effectively do this both teacher and parents can contribute. For critical thinking to be effective students have to be able to analyze, evaluate, infer, interpret, explain and self regulate. These skills are very vital in helping students to make decisions and in helping them to function as good citizens.

Teachers play a critical role in helping students to develop critical thinking skills. It is the teacher’s role to help students develop these skills by acting as facilitator to students and by providing them with the relevant questions that will take them to their higher level of thinking which includes evaluating, synthesizing and analyzing. Teachers can provide opportunities for students by designing various activities for students and using the relevant tools that will support critical thinking. Teachers can also support critical thinking in students by modeling and by asking questions that will get them to think about the process of their decision making.

Electronic Technology

As stated in the text "Supporting Learning with Technology Essentials of Classroom Practice", Electronic technology is referred to the use of computers and is often used synonymous with computers. Technology was previously thought of by me as solely electronics but after gaining knowledge in this course I have come to realize that technology does not only refer to electronics or just computers, but it refers to all electronic devices as well as paper, pencils,chalkboards etc. and all other materials used to contribute positively to the teaching and learning process. Electronic Technology can play a very important role in the lives of students. It can act as a way of motivating students, supporting cooperative learning skills , facilitating learning and also as a way of catering to the multiple learning styles of students. To ensure electronic technology supports these premises teachers have to play their role by providing necessary scaffold, plan effectively and guide their students through the use of the many tools which are included with the technology.