WebLabs model
Definition
We refer to WebLabs as an instructional design model: “The model of learning in WebLabs is that children design, model, reflect, share and comment on each others' evolving knowledge of mathematical and scientific ideas. The pedagogic approach in WebLabs is to motivate and foster model building, collaboration and critique.” ( Pedagogical Model, retrieved 19:28, 21 July 2006 (MEST) )
The model
This model draws from various socio-constructivist thoughts and insists on well defined scenarios (activity sequences).
Its main components are according to the pedagogical model page:
- Motivation: Teacher leads an introduction into the activity sequence.
- Group discussion: Teacher-led sharing of ideas about
- Group web report: Teacher-led writing of an initial group web report
- Designing: Small group discussion about how to model the situation (build from scratch, use preparred tools or models from another site).
- Modelling: Work with the computer
- Group Sharing: Teacher-led sharing of products, comparison. Also debugging and setting of new challenges. Back to modelling if needed.
- Group Reflection: Teacher-led discussion of what has been done
- Group web report: Teacher-led writing of a report (including working models).
It is is noteworthy that each group activity takes place in different sites (web labs) and can feed into each other.
Software
- ToonTalk
- WebReports is a web-based collaborative workspace used in
educational practice. It allows participants to discuss mathematical and scientific concepts using programmed animated and interactive models of their ideas.
Links
- WebLabs home page.
References
Y. Mor, J. Tholander & J. Holmberg (2005), Designing for cross-cultural web-based knowledge building. Presented at 10th anniversary Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) conference, 30 May - 4 June 2005, Taipei, Taiwan. Reprint
Matos, J.F & Santos, M., Global view of WebLabs from a Communities of Practice's point of view, PDF