Using simulations to enhance teaching and learning
course description
Computer simulations have the potential to enhance the way you teach and your students learn. They allow you to bring abstract concepts to life and incorporate otherwise impossible or impractical experiences into your daily instruction. In this module we will examine chemistry specific content using simulations and provide “best practices” for making them work and enhance the learning.
Topics Addressed
- What research says about the use of technology and simulations in classrooms
- Best practices for using computer simulations
- Examples of best practices in action using Chemistry specific content
- Tips for creating lesson plans using simulations
Knowledge, skills and mindset
Knowledge:
Mindset:
- There is beneficial technology to support your classroom
- Simulations allow for students to see more abstract content as well as manipulate things that may otherwise be unseen.
- Develop lesson plans that incorporate simulations
- Use technology to enhance labs
- Use technology to support inquiry
Mindset:
- Technology is a tool to help students in learning not a game that distracts from learning
- In order to build 21st century learners, students need to be exposed to technology in a meaningful and deliberate way