Mindlab Waimate intake 2018

This blog is a reflection on communities of practice (CoP) and how they can help with a teacher inquiry. Descriptive: I have selected two topics for further reflection from this Mindlab journey as potential inquiry topics. I have an interest in 3D printing and growth mindset. Setting children up for the future to be critical thinkers and problem solvers will enable them to not only forge their own path, but also be valuable contributors to society. I'm interested how current technology and a growth mindset can be used to enhance the learning of young children though developing their curiosity and abilities to 'figure things out'. Wenger (2000) outlines a community of practice as groups of people who share a concern or a passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. In order for the group to be a CoP the need to meet the following criteria: Joint Enterprise: We are all educators or have an interest who regularly interact through G...

Since beginning my Mindlab journey, I've been intrigued with the available technology that has been bought to my attention and how these technologies can be used as tools to enhance the learning of my students.  Description I have used the technology I have available in my classroom in a different manner and explored new applications that are arising as result of the Mindlab course. This follows  the sub theme of the role  of current and emerging technologies  (Bolstad, Gilbert, McDowall, Bull, Boyd & Hipkins, 2012) . I have provided a range of digital options to students and giving them the autonomy to 'choose' how they reflect what they are learning has created a greater sense of student agency and also allowed students to follow their own interests. For example, students have been able to create digital movies or write documents on devices. They can choose to code in Scratch, Hopscotch and using the Sphero. Also they can integrate maths in 3D design and pri...