This reflection is based on my experiences using the lesson I adapted from
The context of this lesson follows prior lessons on bar graphs. Students will be familiar with data sets and will have made their own bar graphs using data sets. Therefore, students will understand how to create a visual representation of data in a set. This lesson precedes lessons on mode and median. Follow-up lessons will explore how the mean changes when data changes. The students have had prior experience using MinecraftEDU, but will learn the new skill of capturing and printing a screenshot. This transferable skill will be used throughout the unit and connect to bullying prevention discussed in Health class.
Teaching Student-Centered Mathematics Grades 5-8 (Van de Walle & Lovin: 2006) Drawing on the Big Ideas. from the Grade 5 Data Management strand, of organizing and displaying data, the learning goal for this lesson seeks to instill mastery of the mathematical concept of Mean and to introduce the skill of capturing screenshots.
The use of tech within the lesson seeks to augment the learning experience for the student. By adding the 3D environment, the student is able to spatially interact with their solution providing a deeper understanding of the shift between the columns as the “moyenne” is solved. The online chat aspect allows the teacher to consolidate the learning with the entire class present at the site of solution, enabling full class participation. While explaining their understanding, the students are also able to practice written communication in French, which is an area of great need for this grade level.
Finally, the students are able to blog about the experience and include the screenshot of their work to accent their explanation or print and paste their screenshot into their math journal to write a reflection reinforcing their learning.
After first teaching this lesson, I made a few modifications to the technology involved. With the increased functionality of ePortfolio on the Desire2Learn LMS, I started using online screen capturing tools. This way I could have the students capture their entire process from start to finish and discuss the challenges and "ah ha moments" along their path to the solution.
Things to consider when modifying the lesson this way:
- Network: Using programs like Screencast o'matic draw a lot from you network. Considering that MinecraftEDU will already be pulling a lot, you should test this in advance to using it in lesson.
- Student first names will appear in the chat that is being recorded. While this has not posed any concern for privacy in my experience, each board is different and policy should be considered.
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