(Unit 3) Combining the two, activities/planning
Design Project: Problem-based Learning in Math through Technology
Objectives
- Develop an understanding of how integrating technology can benefit problem-based learning
- Create problem-based activities that have a technology background and use technology tools of the classroom
Introduction
Research has shows that when students are actively engaged and display interest in curriculum then their learning and understanding increases. Both problem-based learning and integration of technology enhance these processes. If PBL is combined with the integration of technology it motivates students, develops understanding, and provides opportunities for discovery which all increase their learning. The problem-based learning relates material to the students through real-world application and scenarios while technology tools provide a sense of learning through our society's practices. The goal of this unit is to facilitate instructors to develop problem-based learning lessons and activities with a technology basis.
The prior knowledge and new concepts for this unit is just to use what was learned and practiced in (Unit 1) and (Unit 2) to now investigate PBL activities with technology so instructors can ultimately develop their own technology driven PBL math lessons which is maximize a students potential and achievement.
Practice with PBL and Technology in Math
This unit will provide a lot of time for teachers to learn from current PBL math activities that are created using and requiring technology. They will have time to go through various lessons so they can determine and conclude the benefits of PBL and technology for themselves.
Activity 1
A website that will provide math activities and applets based on technology that involve real-world applications scenarios grouped by: Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry, Math Games and Puzzles, Logic, Visual Illustrations, Fractal and Chaos, Eye Opener Series, Mathematics in Social Science, Probability, Fallacies, Calculus, Combinatorial Games, Computer Math Magic, Combinatorics, Mathematics Miscellany, Mathematical Droodles, and Analog Devices
http://www.cut-the-knot.org/index.shtml
This gives activities that teachers can incorporate in their math lessons.
TASK: Instructors must comment, discussion, ask questions, provide ideas, and suggestions for integrating PBL in math during (Unit 3) Discussion. Instructors MUST make an initial post, respond to anyone's comments directed for them, and comment on one other post.
Activity 2
Other great websites that teachers can learn from about PBL with technology in math is:
- http://www.ct4me.net/math_projects.htm#DesignProjects
- http://www.amphi.com/teachers/pgreenleaf/edtech/pblactivities.html
- http://jc-schools.net/tutorials/ms/math.htm
Instructors may have already visited these cites in the previous unit, but now they must visit these cites with both PBL and technology in mind. TASK: Instructors must again comment, discussion, ask questions, provide ideas, and suggestions for integrating PBL in math during (Unit 3) Discussion. This will be instructors second post. They MUST still respond to anyone's comments directed for them and comment on one other post.
Assessment
Instructors must create their own PBL math lesson that is based on technology. Post lesson in (Unit 3) Discussion under Discussion 3.
To assess and evaluate, instructors must comment and evaluate other instructors' lessons. You must comment on at least one other lesson/activity.
Reflection
Instructors will be able to have an opportunity for reflection during the Assessment activity while collaborating, discussion, and reflecting with other instructors.