For my first formal trip into the virtual world and deliberate informed use of cognitive tools we visited a farm to take a look at some of the issues and technology based solutions used in modern day farming. I had a handful of
students volunteer to run through a virtual field trip and develop a mind map
based on our central question; what problems can be solved using innovative SMART
technology? Together we developed the mind
map and then upon their request added it to a worksheet to guide answers to our
own questions. I included the opening
question and updated the page format for use in future classes.
Having worked on the
engineering design process, a formal problem solving process during the
previous unit this virtual field trip and mind mapping exercise was a great
follow on activity. The students were
able to put the process into practice and look outside the classroom into real
world problems and technical solutions in unexpected places. We had also spent a class period discussing
our use of technology and how the design process relates not only to mechanical
fixes but technical and process solutions as well. I really wanted the students to see for themselves
how the problem solving process is used in every industry across all corners of
our everyday life. The results were impressive and my jaded high school students were engaged and passionate about finding the best solution looking to poke holes in their own solutions and generate usable ideas!
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