Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Instrumental Genesis
I am interested in researching how individual students go through the process of "instrumental genesis", which is the process of turning what is an otherwise arbitrary technological tool into an effective learning aid. A computer is just a computer until a student learns the skills to use the software installed on it as a device for learning. And this process dictates a lot of what the student is able to learn and understand from using that computer. However, apart from direct instruction, this process is largely individual, and so each student has a different perception of the computer, how to use it and how to benefit from it, which each student chooses to use it differently. I think that by developing multiple case studies of students of varying abilities and both genders, using observations and interviews, I'll be able to paint a picture of how different students individually feel about and utilize technology-based learning aids
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I think this is a very interesting topic, Jacob. I can't really think of any suggestions, but I do have a few questions which you have probably thought of, but didn't have room to address on here. I am concerned about student access and exposure to various forms of technology. What technology and programs are you planning on using? Will all students have access to these tools or might you be limited in availibity of technology? Do you need to account for previous knowledge of these tools or is that taken care of by the students of varying abilities?
ReplyDeleteI think that previous experience and exposure to technology is a big part of the individual instrumental genesis. Each student has a different level of access to computers and calculators, and each has a different set of previous experiences, and this all plays into that student's individual understanding of those tools as learning aids. As for the type of technology used, I guess a lot depends on what kind of class and also the availability of resources.
ReplyDeleteThis is a good topic, and the approach is somewhat unique. I think you will get important data. At some point you will have to define WHAT particular technology you will focus on....the graphing calculator is everywhere, but other tools might be more interesting....
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