Discussion on Problem-Solving and Inquiry in Science

Problem Solving / Inquiry Learning

1. Technology can provide an opportunity to teach problem solving strategies through games. Student can learn a concept and then apply it.
2. We need to teach students to be critical consumers of information. So much information is now available, but how do you determine how valid or reliable the information is?
3. Technology can provide an opportunity to make multiple resources available to students for them to develop foundational knowledge. This is necessary before true authentic problem based learning can take place.
4. Some technologies can provide both exposure to technology and social interaction. E.g. Students collaboratively using a Smart board.
5. Technology and bring a wealth of resources for students to investigate – students can do research outside of class and bring their search results back to class.
6. Technological resources need to be available in order to be used effectively.
7. Technology is becoming part of our everyday lives so teaching students how to use it effectively and appropriately is imperative.
8. With so much information available through technology, inquiry questions and problems need to be really good and well thought out.
9. Technology has made inquiry easier with more information instantly accessible.
10. Using technology helps inquiry become more stimulating for students – having their questions answered promotes further inquiry.
11. Technology in the classroom provides the opportunity for teachers to model how to use it effectively and critically.
12. With or without technology teaching science is still about teaching critical thinking.
13. Problem based and inquiry based learning needs to become more student driven – students driving their own inquiry, curriculum affects this process at times when having to teach to the test.
14. Does technology inhibit authentic inquiry? Students have a problem in front of then and turn to the Internet for an answer rather than making observations and thinking through how to solve a problem.
15. Purpose of inquiry is about process, not rote memorization. Facts can be looked up quickly using technology; process of inquiry still facilitated by face to face student-teacher and student-student interaction.