Recently, my peers and I have been discussing the usefulness of Google as a learning tool in the classroom. Google is an online search system that allows users to search for websites and online documents by using words and phrases. In my opinion, Google is a fantastic resource for research; I can't imagine where I would be without it. Whenever I am starting a new assignment I start my research with a simple Google search to gain some background knowledge about the topic. The useful and easy to use nature of Google makes it a valuable resource for learners in all year levels.
Although many children would have some experience using Google, the teacher would be required to scaffold student's use of this tool to ensure it is being used effectively for educational purposes. For example, effective searches require the user to identify key words and phrases in order for them to locate information that is relevant to the topic they are researching. In addition to this, learners need to be able to assess the validity of sources, on the internet, to ensure the information is legitimate and reliable. Educators must teach evaluative strategies such as cross checking, which involves comparing information from a source with other sources such as other websites and information texts. Additionally, the teacher could involve the whole class in creating a 'resource bank' of credible websites.
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The pacific northwest tree octopus website has been used by educators to create a meaningful context for teaching about the importance of evaluating the validity of internet websites. The website proposes that the 'pacific northwest tree octopus' is endangered and due to its professional presentation it appears to be legitimate. After introducing this website to students, the teacher could initiate a project in which learners will conduct their own research about octopi. By engaging in scaffolded research, the students would be involved in actively constructing the realisation that the website's information is false, thus promoting valuable information literacy skills.
The Big6 e-learning framework would be useful in scaffolding student's research skills using Google. This framework clearly identifies the process involved in effectively locating and using information for a meaningful purpose. I would print this framework onto A3 posters and put them on display in the classroom for students to refer back to during their research for class projects.
In addition to using the Big6 with Google I would encourage students to use it for research with all sources of information such as books, atlases and maps. Although Google is a fantastic research tool, I think it is important that we do not neglect the importance of using books as a means of locating valuable information. There are skills involved in using books such as using the contents and index pages to locate key ideas. Therefore, It is essential that educators embed a range of sources of information across the curriculum.
Link: http://www.big6.com/
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The pacific northwest tree octopus website has been used by educators to create a meaningful context for teaching about the importance of evaluating the validity of internet websites. The website proposes that the 'pacific northwest tree octopus' is endangered and due to its professional presentation it appears to be legitimate. After introducing this website to students, the teacher could initiate a project in which learners will conduct their own research about octopi. By engaging in scaffolded research, the students would be involved in actively constructing the realisation that the website's information is false, thus promoting valuable information literacy skills.
In addition to using the Big6 with Google I would encourage students to use it for research with all sources of information such as books, atlases and maps. Although Google is a fantastic research tool, I think it is important that we do not neglect the importance of using books as a means of locating valuable information. There are skills involved in using books such as using the contents and index pages to locate key ideas. Therefore, It is essential that educators embed a range of sources of information across the curriculum.
Link: http://www.big6.com/
I like that you raised the point of the value books still hold for learning. For example, imagine the skills students would miss out on if they were not encouraged to search through a dictionary for spelling words. The process is alphabetical. When using Google (which is what most people do these days) it is not a case of searching alphabetically but a matter of having a go at typing a word and clicking 'search' ,then Google does the rest for you. Yes, books hold a significant value for the type of hands on learning that Google does not provide.
ReplyDeleteThat is an excellent point Stacey. Google instantly corrects your spelling mistakes, therefore, removing the need for learners to check their own spelling. Additionally, books are more readily accessible as they are available in hard copy, whereas Google is subject to the limitations of technology such as power outages.
ReplyDeleteI think that displaying the Big 6 Framework in the classroom is a really good idea. for students to refer back to and have there to look at through the learning journey. Thanks for sharing your great idea.
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