Whole-Class Inquiry: Social Studies

Whole-Class Inquiry: Social Studies
By Stephanie van Hover and Meghan Van Horne

Van Hover and Van Horne article demonstrates how the technology of the web and the digital projector can enhance the learning of students in a whole class setting. They point out how some students do not get a well rounded understand of social studies when reading individually. The area of study they highlighted was learning about how the government works. The project they design was a simulation on a new amendment is added to the Constitution. Using a PowerPoint to engage the student interested and lay down the basics. The students were ask to take on the rolls of congressman, advisers and petitioners to look into the workings of the government. The teachers coaches and encouraged student to come with questions and ideas for legislation and then work it through the system. I think that this approach of using technology and interactive learning is more effective than just studying books. The time and energy to create the simulation would be small compare to the benefits of learning the student would derive.

Q1.How could this type of technology be use for other curriculum?

A1. Math curriculum is a great area to use PowerPoint for group learning. A good simulation for the understanding math in the real world is have the students design and build something. A great building idea that the student could use a lot of math to make is a deck.  

Q2. How would I use whole class learning in a high school social studies?

A2. The use of reenactments gets students involved in the learning process instead of being passive receptors. The students could take on the rolls of history figures and answer question from their follow students. They could also make a PowerPoint and present it to the class.