Meaningful learning requires active engagement through manipulation of objects and parameters to observe results. It is characterized as being synergetic, interrelated, interactive, and interdependent. There are several types of meaningful learning, including active learning through manipulation and observation; constructive learning by integrating new experiences with prior knowledge; intentional learning by establishing goals; authentic learning through real-world contexts; and cooperative learning through group work and collaboration. Technology can facilitate learning by providing rich media for knowledge construction and conversation rather than knowledge reproduction, and by engaging learners in articulation, collaboration, and reflection rather than repetition or prescription.

1. What is Meaningful Learning?Nicky Stratton

2. Meaningful LearningRequires learners who are activeActively engaged by a meaningful taskTasks which they can manipulate objects and parameters of the environment they work inObserve the results of their manipulations.

3. Characteristics of Meaningful Learning.SynergeticOne or more of these present = meaningful learning will occur.InterrelatedInteractiveInterdependent

4. Active Learning. Known as manipulative or observant.Promotes thinking.Learning is natural.actively manipulating objects and observing what they have done..

5. Constructive LearningArticulate/reflective learningEncourage reflection on learning by childrenActivity is necessary but not sufficient for learning.Integrate new experiences with prior knowledgeEstablish learning goals = meaningful learning.

6. Intentional LearningGoal directed/RegulatoryUser knows the endThink and learn more by fulfilling their goal.Using computers for planning everyday tasks – learning meaningfully.

7. Authentic LearningComplex/contextualRealistic for childrenRelevant / real lifeRelate ideas to real-world contextsSimulations or problem-based learningTransferred to new situationsCreate an authentic experience

8. Cooperative LearningCollaborative/ConversationalEngagedGroup work/small groupsNaturally work togetherSeek out others for helpConnect learners in same classroom, across town or around the world.

9. How does Technology Facilitate Learning?Use the computer to represent what they know, not what the teachers or textbooks tell them!Provides rich and flexible media for learning.Think that technologies are learning tools that students learn with, not from = nature of learning will change!

10. It’s all about the thinking!Students learn from thinkingThinking about what they are doingThinking about what they believeThinking about what others have done and believeJust thinking and reasoningLEARNING RESULTS FROM THINKING!

11. TECHNOLOGY ENGAGING LEARNERSTechnology cannot teach studentsLearners teach the technologyMeaningful learning will result when technologies engage learners by:Knowledge construction, not reproductionConversation, not receptionArticulation, not repetitionCollaboration, not competitionReflection, not prescription

12. FinallyTECHNOLOGIES ARE LOUSY TEACHERS, BUT THEY CAN PROVIDE POWERFUL TOOLS TO THINK WITH!