Computers as Mindtools

I find it very exciting that more teachers are using computers in classrooms as a tool, rather than activity in itself. People use computers as a tool every day; yet, many schools have taken a long time to do this. Students can only sit and play a math blaster game for so long before they grow bored of it. On the other hand, semantic software such as Kidspiriation, Inspiration, PowerPoint, databases and iMovie, to name a few, have endless possibilities. No two students will use the program in exactly the same way.
More importantly, computers as Mindtools allow for creative and critical thinking in students’ work. Computers offer more flexibility of expressing oneself than ever before and therefore, creative endeavors are more abundant in the classrooms. When students are able to use semantic networking tools like Inspiration, they are able to analyze their ideas and draw conclusions (Jonassen, Carr, & Yueh 1998).

Nancy Hertzog and Marjorie Klein (2005) share their experiences with integrating computers as Mindtools into a class for gifted students ages three through six. Students regularly use the software programs Kidspiration, PowerPoint, iPhoto, Simple Text and Photoshop along with digital cameras, digital camcorders and scanners. The choices in software and technology allow the students to express themselves in many different ways and construct their own learning to fit their style. Since many students are still mastering the fine motor skills it takes to write at this young of an age, Simple Text allows them to create a story without the interruption of having to concentrate on letter formation. They are able to concentrate on their ideas and the content, and edit or add to the story easily. In these classrooms, using technology as Mindtools are the driving force behind learning and exploration, and it is clear that they are making a difference in the students’ learning.

Perhaps one reason for the slow start on using computers as Mindtools is because, as Hertzog and Klein (2005) point out, teachers and parents are “digital immigrants”, while the students are “digital natives”, that is, they will grow up in a world where computers are used as a tool everyday. It seems to be taking some time for teachers to incorporate computers as tools simply because this is new to them. One way to speed up this process may be to offer workshops where the teachers themselves are using the computers as Mindtools in order to demonstrate the opportunities that this will give the students. Teachers should always be looking for a way to increase students’ critical thinking skills, and using computer programs as a tool to enhance these skills is an opportunity that should not be taken lightly.

References:

Hertzog, N., & Klein, M. (2005). Beyond gaming: a technology explosion in early childhood classrooms. Gifted Child Today. 28(3), 24-32.

Jonassen, D. H., Carr, C., & Yueh, H.-P. (1998). Computers as mindtools for engaging learners in critical thinking. TechTrends, 43(2), 24-32.