Mader, J., Smith, B. (2009). Science + technology = creativity (and Fun!). Learning & Leading with Technology, 35, Retrieved August 4, 2009, from http://www.learningandleading-digital.com/learning_leading/200908/
How can we as educators get science students to break out of the stereotypical scientific model of linear thinking with an implicit following of a set of procedures and protocols to help investigate and solve problems? There is a three-step process that will help science students be creative in their scientific endeavors.
The first step is to afford students with opportunities to use the tools of scientific and creative inquiry. In the first project students will be asked to complete an assignment with clear laboratory and investigative procedures, but will also be asked to use a microphone, digital camera or camcorder to present their findings. With each additional assignment have students use a different technological tool so they have more choices in their digital toolbox. As time goes on, you will be able to challenge students more by giving them assignments or project that are more vague in procedural expectations and have open-ended product descriptions. This type of assignment or project hones in on cognitive skills and allows students to refer back to their digital “toolbox” to use the type of technological tool that would best help them get to their final product.
The second step involves time. At first students may need additional time to become more familiar with the software and hardware tools that they will be using as science students, but as they become proficient with the tools less time will be needed. The final step happens after the students have all the equipment needed in their digital toolboxes and have been given ample time to complete assignments. At this juncture, you can be vague with students on describing the final product. Give students all the required content, but don’t be specific about their mode of delivering the final product. This encourages creativity and innovativeness.
How does technology breed creativity in science? By allowing students to present their findings to one another they can showcase their creativity and get cool new ideas from other students.
What would be a good way to gauge students’ proficiencies with all of the tools used throughout the school year? Have a final project that is vague in nature, but requires all of the technological tools to be incorporated or used in some manner.
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