Ass 1 Mindtools 2nd Semester1

1. Assignment 1 1. Briefly discuss conceptual change as seen by Jonassen Meaningful learning forms the bases of conceptual change. The learning is intentional and dynamic, which occurs within a constructive process. •

Intentional refers to deliberate and purposeful action to bring about change

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Dynamic describes a vibrant, vigorous active process that are not lethargic or apathetic and tend to change according to the maturity level of the domain knowledge.

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Constructive indicate a positive and productive way to utilize the domain knowledge in order to construct new authentic ideas.

Conceptual change occurs when learners change their understanding of the concepts they use and of the conceptual framework that include them. Smith. (et al. 1993) refers to conceptual change as an evolutionary process of adding concepts and reorganizing knowledge structures to include new concepts. However I, tend to differ with the above mentioned statement. The focus of conceptual change is to construct new knowledge and utilize that to build models to solve problems. The models that learners build and alter indicate the constructed knowledge by changing the conceptions of what they are learning. A lack of skill to build a model is a clear indication that learning was not constructed effectively and learning did not occur. Revolutionary theorists such as (Thagard, 1992), state that conceptual change occurs if there are inconsistencies with regard to learners personal believes and assumptions. This leads to the believe that we are persuaded to change our perceptions to accept new knowledge. Data that had not been processed, can contradict the existing conceptualization of knowledge, that will ultimately result in change when processed, to form information and therefore creating models to solve problems. Conceptual change will be hampered if low domain knowledge is experienced. This will ultimately lead to a lack of conceptual change. Conceptual change is a flow that is controlled by alearner’s outlook to change.

2. Briefly explain Jonassen’s use of the term modeling Modeling refers to the building and construction of models. These models function as tools and instruments for investigations. They are intellectual autonomy that is independent from theories. By building these instruments of models, we find out what elements of theory fit together that are real and relevant. Through this process, choices are made and in the decision making process lays the learning. According to Morgan, we learn from using models, but the actual learning depends on how we transfer the skills and knowledge we learn. Through construction we put together parts of life experiences that are authentic. This can be manipulated by influencing and it can control learning by adding to the existing knowledge. The models can be tested by adding it to the new domain knowledge. Conceptual modeling provides an intellectual engine that creates an opportunity to solve problems. The intellectual engine refers to careful thinking and is a mental effort.

3. Briefly discuss the meaning of the word mindtool 

A mindtool is a Technology based conceptual tool. As an analogy to the use of hand tools in physical constructions, a constructivist view of education advocates the development and use of 'mind tools' for knowledge construction. These tools can be internal [e.g. self-talk, memory devices, strategies) or external (e.g. computer hardware and software] to the learner. With reference to computerbased mind tools, this means moving away from software that simply presents information to the learner, and towards software that the learner can use to develop their own understandings [by collecting, organizing, and analyzing information]. 'Mindtools' can be used to teach critical thinking and problem solving, as well as to develop or even change the perception of concepts

• Jonassen describes Mindtools as "a way of using a computer application program to engage learners in constructive, higher-order, critical thinking about the subjects they are studying". The learner enters an intellectual partnership with the computer and begins to access and interpret information, and organize personal knowledge in new ways. Mindtools are computer-based tools and learning environments, which serve as extensions of the mind. Examples of mindtools are: • • • • • • • • • •

database tools spreadsheets semantic networks (concept maps) computer conferencing hypermedia construction mind maps diagram software graphic software word processors EPPS-Shells.

Learning WITH cognitive tools or mindtools refers to "the mindful engagement of learners in the tasks afforded by these tools and .... the possibility of qualitatively upgrading the performance of the joint system of learner plus technology." In other words, when students work WITH computer technology, instead of being controlled by it, they enhance the capabilities of the computer, and the computer enhances their thinking and learning.

4. Briefly state the purpose of modeling The purpose of modeling is to conceptualize elements, rules, operations and relations. Through the use of modeling, these concepts are expressed and internalized, by using external representation. There are two types of models: Internal (In mind) According to the mental model theory, problem solving depends on the construction and manipulation of mental models (internal representations) in the mind. The construction of a mental model results from links made between the elements of the problem description and the underlying knowledge base. or External (Which can be concrete) It can make use of Math diagrams / Mindmaps / Language /Diagrams, etc. External models can also be divided into: Qualitative - Expressed in words Quantitative Expressed in numerical digits Formulae (Science or Math) Mathematical Models Models of concepts or models of knowledge internalize these concepts and knowledge. In other words, the purpose of modeling is to make concepts easier to understand and part of your knowledge. According to Jonassen, If you can produce a model of a concept, you understand and know this concept.

Question 5 Briefly discuss the modeling of domain knowledge, systems, thinking,, problem solving and experiences. Domain knowledge Construction of models of domain knowledge involves a variety of modeling tools. Two can be identified e.g. concept mapping and system modeling tools. Concept maps serve to represent semantic structures of the domain knowledge and therefore constructing a model will ensure better understanding of concepts that mere memorizing. Domain principles are represented whereby learners are able to test and describe their mental models of the phenomena.. A limitation is that the relationships among variables are not stated explicitly and that is the linearity of the structure can be jeopardized.

Systems Models of systems are indicative of an integrated view of the world. It enables the learner to build models that focus and their internal interactions. Models on systems can show a function of factors, as part of a larger whole. It can also show the interactions of components within any system.

Thinking Instead of modeling content the kind of thinking that are required to solve a problem, make a decision or complete a task can also be constructed an a model.

Experiences Meaning to experiences and personal actions can be organized in the form of stories. In this method content is collected and studied. This information can be put in a model for example in a database.

Question 6 Briefly discuss the limitations of model mindtools Cognitive load. The construction of models is not an easy task; it demands a greater cognitive effort from the person doing the constructing. Integrating of the textual and diagrammatic information are said to place heavy demands on working memory. The fact that integration of multiple sources of information needs to be integrated in constructing of models Developmental differences Models that are constructed require a specific level of intellectual development therefore different kinds of models would require different kinds of intellectual development. Databases and concept maps might be easy for younger learners whereas system modeling tools might be more advanced.

Fidelity Models are easily misunderstood because persons n understand them to be identical to the models themselves. The fact is that models are representations of the phenomena they implicate. To be able to represent the world by means of a model are indeed very complex. Models have assumption which is sometimes not illustrated directly which leaves the interpreter vulnerable to interpretation of the model.

Bibliography http://www.ied.edu.hk/apfslt/v8_issue2/joan/joan8.htm#eight

http://www.ied.edu.hk/apfslt/v8_issue2/joan/joan4.htm http://www.cs.uta.fi/tao/jonassen-list.pdf http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/journal/94518604/abstrac