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Break Out
This was a most fascinating session as I experienced what it was like to experience the DSLO’s firsthand! We had to communicate our ideas and listen to those of others. Additionally, we had to collaborate and build on each others ideas in order to unlock keys. Critical thinking was important as we had to use use clues to get us to the next level.
I did not expect to be that engaged and vested in this session as I did. I enjoyed taking risks - sharing my thinking with the other participants - as we all were struggling to unlock a key.
I tremendously enjoyed thinking ‘outside the box’ and having to test my ideas. This is a type of thinking that is not often practiced in a school setting, so this was very refreshing!
This type of activity might seem challenging for the kids who are not comfortable taking, however, with the support of the group, the students might learn the intrinsic joy that comes with getting a step closer to unlocking a lock!
Data Spreadsheets
This was an amazing session in that it gave me great many tools to use for my current spreadsheets. These tools included how to:
Split contents of a cell into columns (I used to re-write them simply because I had no other idea how to do it).
Enter specific data via Data Validation. I now have a drop down menu from which to chose data from.
Freezing columns and rows was another ‘ah ha’ moment as I often scrolled up and over to see what the columns/rows header was!
Getting more advanced in the power of the spreadsheet, I learned to apply a formula: sum and average to calculate just that! Adding “(iferror (xyz), “ “) was another great tidbit of valuable information.
I am planning on using these tools in the spreadsheets I am currently working with in grade 5. Mariel and I make them to help us determine what group they belong into and I think I can use the tools learned today to help me achieve this goal.
Coding
Another session that combined hands-on experiences with fun. Using Sphero, we had to program the sphere to follow a pre-designed course. It was in the programming where I had to be a ‘computational thinker’ and program the sphere to roll in a certain direction, with a certain speed for a certain time. I quickly learned to manipulate one of these variables to get from the starting line to the first base. I also had to work with angles by telling the sphere to move in a certain direction in a certain angle. It was a trial and error experience. Luckily, I made it back to homebase!
I could see this activity being a high-interest one to use in the classroom. Students would learn the value of only manipulating one variable at a time, thus reinforcing the science concept of ‘fair testing.’ Additionally, kids learn about angles, time and speed.
Furthermore, I could see this coding toy being used to have groups of kids maneuver an obstacle courses and having competitions with other groups. The skill of collaboration would be important as kids work on navigating the course as a team.
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