Models and Interactives

            Models and interactives are a valuable tool in the educational process (Kenyon, Schwarz, & Hug, 2008). The topic that I explored was with seismic activity and earthquakes. Within this topic students used models of structures that were not made to withstand earthquakes and structures that were designed to be earthquake resistant. Students then compared and contrasted the models before developing their own structure they believed would survive an earthquake. Students also explored wave motion using slinkys as a model. They could then act out wave characteristics or use the model to demonstrate wave motion. Also students used interactives to explore the concepts of plate boundaries with respect to earthquakes. Students could manipulate the activity to see how stress built up in the crust and how earthquakes are formed. These models and interactives worked effectively at demonstrating and engaging students with the content (Kenyon, et. al., 2008). Students were able to apply the concepts in their formative and summative assessments; thus, indicating success with the outlined learning objectives. This showed that the instructional plan was a success as students’ demonstrated proficiency with the content. The only challenge that presented itself in the use of models and interactives was with pacing. The time needed to thoroughly explore the model or interactive is not always conducive to a period and needed more time than I allotted. It is a simple fix but something that will be considered in future applications of this instructional plan.

References:

Kenyon, L., Schwarz, C., & Hug, B. (2008). The benefits of scientific modeling. Science & Children, 46(2), 40–44.