Cognitive tools have many uses in the classroom if they are used to their fullest potential. Their roles allow students to interact with information in order to acquire, synthesize, create, and share new knowledge (Robertson, Elliot, & Washington, 2007). Cognitive learning tools also have many advantages such as enhancing learning and thinking, activate metacognitive strategies, and to experience cognitive processes. When cognitive tools are implemented in the classroom correctly, the students can become the independent learners and the teacher can be the facilitator of the classroom. This interaction empowers learners to become active and responsible filters of information in which they engage in directing their mental processes; therefore, the role of the teacher resumes the “guide on the side" (Robertson, Elliot, & Washington, 2007).
When looking at this weeks resources, they support the theories of cognitive learning. Concept mapping and graphic organizers help students collect and organize information so that they can see the information represented visually. Teachers need to present information so that it is stored in the long term memory of the students and this can be done by using cognitive tools so that the learning is fun and memorable for the students. When teachers use cues and questions, they are activating prior knowledge and information that the students already have stored. When the information is revisited during this process, the students are more likely to remember it and can also relate the information to something personal. Having students make personal connections with learned information will help them to store the information for longer amounts of time.
Orey, M.(Ed.). (2001). Emerging perspectives on learning, teaching, and technology. Retrieved from http://projects.coe.uga.edu/epltt/
Pitler, H., Hubbell, E., Kuhn, M., & Malenoski, K. (2007). Using technology with classroom instruction that works. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
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Shannon,
ReplyDeleteI think that graphic organizers and concept maps are a great way to teach. I remember during my students teaching the teacher i worked with used a graphic organizer to teach everything from the role of governments to the people in congress. It truly helped the students learn what was needed to succeed. During my undergrad teaching program, they never talked about graphic organizers or any way of teaching the students in a way that will allow them to learn more completely. Organizers and concept maps are a great way to teach students, especially if you use technology with the maps and organizers.