What is Discovery Learning?
What is Discovery Learning?
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Discovery learning was originated by Jerome Bruner and is based in the constructivist learning theory (Kotee & Nguyen, 2021). This strategy encourages the construction of knowledge through “learning by doing,” including exploration, experimentation, problem-solving, and active participation (“Discovery Learning Method,” 2018).
One advantage of discovery learning is that it can be beneficial for students with behavior or developmental concerns; this strategy encourages active participation in the learning process, which can help students to remain on-task by participating rather than simply spectating (“Discovery Learning,” 2018)
One advantage of discovery learning is that it helps students become more independent and take control of their own learning. It builds their confidence and encourages a positive attitude toward learning. (Young, 2024)
One disadvantage of discovery learning is that it can hinder learning if not used correctly. Teachers must be well-trained to use this strategy correctly and ensure that students are mastering concepts rather than just performing activities (“Discovery Learning,” 2018)
One disadvantage of discovery learning is it can lack a focus on conceptual understanding, This leaves students to acquire knowledge independently through available resources without teacher guidance. This can hinder their ability to fully grasp the material.(Nusantari* et al., 2024)
Five Technologies- Niasha
Storybird
Storybird is an online platform that allows users to create and share stories. Utilizing art from professional artists, students can write and illustrate their own stories. It helps students develop their narrative story skills and build confidence in their writing skills. Finished stories can be published online or even turned into physical books.
Code.org
This website helps people learn how to code. It offers free lessons and activities that teach the basics of computer programming in a fun and easy way. You can follow step-by-step tutorials to learn programming skills and create your own projects. The site has games and puzzles that teach coding concepts through interactive challenges. You can learn about different areas of coding, like building websites, creating apps, or understanding how computers work.
Gizmos
https://gizmos.explorelearning.com/
Gizmos is an educational app created by ExploreLearning, designed to help students in grades K-12 understand and explore various concepts in math and science. The app provides interactive simulations and virtual labs that allow students to experiment with and visualize complex topics in a hands-on way. It's often used by educators as a tool to supplement classroom learning and provide additional practice and engagement opportunities for students.For example, students can explore physics principles by manipulating variables in a virtual lab or visualize mathematical concepts through dynamic graphs and models.
Book Creator
Book Creator is a digital tool that lets students make and read interactive digital books. Students can make their own books by typing text, drawing pictures, or adding their own videos, audio, and images. They can also use online resources. It can be used for collaborative projects because multiple students can work on the same book.
Smithsonian Labs
The site provides access to a huge array of digital resources from the Smithsonian's museums, libraries, and research centers. This includes images, videos, documents, and other educational materials. Students and teachers can explore a variety of educational materials, such as lesson plans, activities, and curriculum guides. These resources are designed to support teaching and learning across different subjects and grade levels.
Five Technologies- Haley
Inq-ITS
InqITS is an educational website that allows students to complete virtual science experiments. This program allows students to independently work through the process of forming a hypothesis, designing and complete investigations to test the hypothesis, and analyze the data. While students are guided through the inquiry process, teachers are provided with data on student performance.
PhET Interactive
PhET is an app that provides interactive math and science simulations in a game-like environment. The simulations include real-world connections, scientific inquiry, and multiple representations to allow students to explore various math and science concepts, such as number sense for younger students or even college-level science.
Epic digital library
https://www.getepic.com/educators
EPIC is a digital library for students in grades K-8. Students are rewarded with points and badges for accomplishing reading goals. Many options for books are available, including audiobooks, read-aloud books, and graphic novels. A variety of reading material allows students to discover books that fit their interests and fuel a love of reading. Students can explore familiar topics and discover new ones.
DOGO news
https://www.dogonews.com/teachers
DOGOnews is a website for kid-friendly news articles. These articles feature current events, as well as subject-specific articles, such as science, civics, environment, and sports. DOGOnews can be used to help students stay aware of current events, build real-world connections in learning, and identify and explore topics of interest.
Padlet
https://padlet.com/site/education
Padlet is an interactive space designed for collaboration. One way that Padlet can be used in discovery learning is to create a KWL chart (what I Know, what I Want to know, and what I Learned). Students can contribute to a board, either in small groups or as a class. Students can activate prior knowledge by responding to what they know about a particular topic. They can begin the inquiry process by responding to what they want to know/questions they have about the topic. As they explore and research the topic, they can respond to what they learned. Using Padlet can help to see all students’ responses together and help students to make connections and collaborate as they explore a new topic.
Kotee, T., & Nguyen, C. (2021, July 16). Instruction vs. Discovery Learning. AACSB. https://www.aacsb.edu/insights/articles/2021/07/instruction-vs-discovery-learning-in-the-business-classroom
Inventionland Education. (2018, April 23). Discovery Learning Method. Inventionland Education. https://inventionlandeducation.com/discovery-learning-method
Nusantari*, E., Abdul, A., Damopolii, I., Alghafri, A. S. R., & Bakkar, B. S. (2024, September 15). Combination of Discovery Learning and metacognitive knowledge strategy to enhance students’ critical thinking skills. European Journal of Educational Research. https://www.eu-jer.com/combination-of-discovery-learning-and-metacognitive-knowledge-strategy-to-enhance-students-critical-thinking-skills
Young, N. (2024, March 22). What is Discovery Learning? exploring the interactive approach to education - teachfloor. RSS. https://www.teachfloor.com/elearning-glossary/discovery-learning
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