After spending a significant amount of time watching videos about science and technology on TED.com (an intellectual version of youtube, which offers free talks in the categories Technology, Entertainment, and Design)I decided to attempt to "embed" a video that would be appropriate for this blog. Through some trial and error, I managed to get the video embedded so that it plays right on my blog. The video I selected focuses on using technology to reach students across the world, specifically in slums. It seemed to fit right in with what we've been discussing in this course, the need to change how we use technology to improve student learning. Check it out when you have time!
Using new web tools in my classroom excites me, but my main use of pre-made videos has always been to get students engaged. As I read through the Science & Literacy Article, I realized asking students to reflect upon what was shown in the video would be a valid and meaningful method in which I could incorporate writing into my science curriculum.
I will be teaching biology for the first time this fall, so my next step is finding a few appropriate videos that I can use during the first few weeks of school. My intent is to use the videos to encourage students to interpret, apply concepts, and make real world connections, as well as to introduce what biology is all about. I think by using a "watch-write-discuss" activity (video is shown, students are given time to write a reflection, and then students are encouraged to discuss their reflections in a small group setting) would provide a learning opportunity that would incorporate literacy into my science curriculum.
Check back later this week to see what videos I find that are suitable for introducing biology! Suggestions are also welcome.
Great video - very eye opening and pertinent to the challenges we have in our schools in the US. The idea that education has to be relevant is so important, but not always practical when students must know a certain body of facts to pass a test at the end of the year. I also liked the idea about engaging the student before the learning can take place. Is that your idea behind the watch-write-discuss activity?
ReplyDeleteI tried your idea this past school year with a challenging environmental science class. The students were interactive with the content if we discussed ideas that were perceived as relevant to the - for example, current events in our town that dealt with environmental issues. They did not interact with the book well, even though I felt it was very reader friendly with multitudes of pictures and graphs. I found that they learned as much or more, interacted more as a class, and enjoyed learning more, when I showed videos from Modern Marvels. I showed about 10 minutes of the video, stopped and let them write 2-3 important ideas about what they had seen, then we discussed it. We used this idea for 4-5 units through the year, and mixed it with labs and discussion/lecture also. I felt a little guilty about using so much video, but for this class it worked.
Nancy - In my opinion, if you are purposefully using short videos in your teaching, you are doing a very good think. Students are comfortable getting information from video (even if they don't think critically about it), so you are engaging them in multiple mediums.
ReplyDeleteI know a couple of teachers that are interested in creating a science version of the TEDx project. I'm sure they are open to more collaborators. Let me know if you are interested.
ReplyDeleteI agree that using multiple mediums for engaging students is best practice. The key, in my experience, keeping it short and providing them "think time" - time to reflect (with my middle school ss I have to give prompt) before you ask them to discuss. I'll be very interested to see what else you find!
ReplyDeleteI am also looking for short videos to add to my biology classes. I will let you know if I find some good ones during this class.
ReplyDeleteAt a summer workshop a few years ago, the teacher explained how she used the movie GATACCA during a DNA or genetics unit. I was leary to show such a long video (takes 2-3 class periods), but it really makes the students think about genetics and what our future could be like. I have discussion questions and point out specific ideas I want them to get. Since it is a real Hollywood movie with actors that the students know, they really get into it. They can't wait to see what is going to happen.
Great video! I too am spending lots of time in front of the computer wading through all of the science videos offered on the web. I have been out of teaching for a few years and find it amazing how many more resources/links we have as teachers now.
ReplyDeleteVideos, especially short ones related to a specific concept, are a great way to visually explain a concept. Many concepts we teach are difficult for students to make that visual connection with. A few pictures in a book or on a Ppt presentation may get the info to some students, but most students, even adults, need more in depth visuals in order to become engaged in the material. By playing then pausing, great discussions can be made about specific ideas in the videos.
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