I am beginning the pre-plan for a unit in Child Psychology. I am looking at changing the way I have students research a Child Psychology theorist. I currently have them choose between 16 different theorists. They research biographical information, basic ideas about how the theorist believe children develop and provide an outline of the key aspects for their classmates. Before they choose a theorist, they see a power point and take notes from my lecture in a flip chart about the 16 theorists. They then research the theorist and make a short presentation to the class. I conclude with a matching and 3 essay questions quiz. I envision them using google docs to work with two other students. Pre-plan questions to ask:
1. What resources would you need? I would need a classroom set of computers. What else?
2. What barriers might arise? I run a Kid’s Klub 10 days during the quarter with pre-schoolers coming to the HS. It has taken 4 or 5 days to complete the theorist process. I will need to make sure the process fits within that time frame. I will get the computer lab reserved early in the quarter.
3.What are appropriate technology tools or strategies to meet your instructionsl goals? Google searches and google docs I envision three students all contibuting to the final paper. Then decide if I want to include a presentation. If so what would be creative and meaningful ways to have a group of three students present to their classmates.
4. What preparation will students need to effectively use a new tool or strategy? I will need to teach them the tips for a very focused google search. I will need to teach them the aspects of google docs.
Anyone used google docs with a small group of students? How did it go? What challenges do you see with this approach to a unit?
