What examples of active learning have you participated in in computer science courses? Did you participate fully or reluctantly? Do you feel it helped your understanding?

What examples of actively learning have you participated in in a field other than computer science courses? How did it help your understanding?

Then, as you are reading Mindstorms, consider the following questions asking you to relate what you are reading to what we learned last week.

Intro: What are the two main points he wants the reader to take away and are threaded throughout the book?

Chapter 1: He describes how word processors could transform 3rd grade writing. The process he describes involves which ideas you have seen so far (Constructivism, Active learning, Scaffolding and/or Affordances) and why? Have word processors transformed 3rd grade writing?

Intro: He posits that widespread use of computers break down social / cultural barriers that now exist. Do you think that this has happened? Has widespread use of technology (e.g. cell phones and tablets) led to the belief that all students have an equal place in future technology revolution, mathematics, etc.? Explain.

Describe what motivated you to learn in formal classroom settings. Your family? Your own competitive spirit? Desire for a better life than your parents? Fear of what would happen if you failed?

Write a description of a learning experience in your life that mirrors the Gears experience described. If you do not have such an informal learning experience that drove and transformed your formal learning, then what formal learning experience sticks out the most in your mind as being both engaging and educational?