Blog Post Week 10

Week 10

            To begin class this week we reviewed what we learned last week which included: the five big ideas about natural selection, how natural selection works, the causes for natural selection, and four drivers for evolution. Following this, we reviewed our reading reflections on the 3D model and NGSS with our table groups and the class.

            We then discussed technology for science teaching and learning. We shared what technology we currently use as students to help our learning, and then brainstormed some technology we think would enhance our teaching. We also talked about what technology would be most beneficial for our students. Most specifically we talked about the pros and cons of simulations and the variety of simulations available. Before having this discussion I did not know that most simulations were free. Many simulations show processes we cannot observe in the classroom as they would be too dangerous or expensive. They provide experiences students would otherwise not have and really increase the engagement and depth of the lesson.

            Finally, in class today we worked with our table groups to create a children's book on the evolution of a specific animal. Our group chose to focus on the evolution from wolf to dog. For this, we worked with DALL-E 2 AI, which I had never heard of, and slightly with Microsoft Bing's AI image generator. This was a really interesting activity as I had never worked with AI before, or really even heard much about it. I am excited to have a new resource to use as a teacher and to share with my future students. The tool allows the user to be creative and specific so they can visualize the ideas in their head. I think elementary students would have a great time using this while developing a project.