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1.3 Pedagogical Theories and Socio-Emotional Learning

THEORIES IN EDUCATION

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING/TRANSVERSAL COMPETENCIES

LASER CUTTING

Theories in Education

The Constructivists Method - based on reserachers Seymour Papert, John Dewy, Lev Vygotsky and Maria Montessori - realizes that students learn best by building their own knowledge through a connection to the outside world. Learning through design is powerful. Complex tasks can be achieved through the use of concrete or abstract methodology.

SEL / Transversal Competencies

Social Emotional Learning or Transversal Competencies are important Life Skills!

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Some examples: * Collaboration * Cooperation * Empathy * Perseverence * Self Regulation * Flexible Thinking * Frustration Tolerance

Consider how lessons connect with those life competencies. As adults we can recognize and take note of these learnings. Likewise, we can support children as they grapple with these concepts and note the learning that takes place as a result.

Using a Laser Cutter

This week I worked on using the Laser Cutter and considered socio-emotional learning compentencies that can and should be embedded in lesson planning.

The Tools

Inkspace and Vector to create digital images to be sent to the laser and fabricated.

The Process

  • Use digital platforms to design your prototype.
  • Turn on pumps to extract fumes
  • Turn on laser cutter
  • Send design to ‘Job Manager’
  • Finalize settings
  • Send to printer for fabrication
  • Watch and pray for the outcome you had imagined!
  • Go back to Inkscape, make necessary changes and repeat.

Reflection

Through trial and error I learned how to design simple shaped and add text. Solomon helped me to understand that the .010mm would be used for vector ‘cutting lines’ and other fill and line settings can vary according to your desired outcome.
Some Ideas: * Make a loom to be used in weaving * Create topographical maps * Use to create something to depict history * Physics - pullies and levers * Hydrophonic planter * Language tool * Mathematical learning tools * Name tags, pencil holders, lunch numbers and other everyday items.

SEL has been a strong focus of mine throughout the years. I value its place in education and believe that true learning cannot take place without a strong social curriculum and practices. Mindfulness practices in education is something I’ve studied and practiced. This technique is also meant to support and grow some of these same skills.

Responsive Classroom is widely spoken of and used on Martha’s Vineyard. I appreciate it’s elements. Builidng community in the classroom and choice in academic learning and expression is something I practice and strive to perfect.

This topic has made me think more about how DF naturally lends itself to SEL and transversal skills.

New learning for me is considering how to purposefully add transversal skills into lesson objectives. This attention will create more comprehensive lessons and well rounded learning outcomes.

The Outcome

IDEAS

Group work to build transversal competencies and relate learning to subjects/topics covered in the classroom.

Additional Resources

Seymour Papert’s book, Mindstorms