Abstract:
I will share how we designed embodied models in the Science Through Embodied Technology Modeling Environments (https://embodiedplay.org/) to leverage embodied classroom experiences as a source of thought and reflection. In the STEP environment, groups of learners enact an embodied model of a phenomena such as fish eating algae in a pond, or beavers building dams to change how a stream flows. However, simply acting as a character in a model like this does not guarantee learners feel compelled to move around, nor that they see the value of their movement, or reflect on the underlying phenomena. In our work we’ve found that attention to this in design is important, and often involves preparing a sequence of activities that highlight complementary aspects of the system being studied. I’ll share our design process, as well as summarizing some of our findings to show how learners engaged with these environments and how different designs promoted different levels of attention and / or reflection about the underlying concepts that we were hoping to convey.
Joshua Danish (Professor and Department Head, Curriculum and Instruction)
The overarching theme in my program of research is an examination of how people learn through activity. Learning through activity involves interacting with other people, physical objects, and ideas. Physical objects can range from actual flowers and drawings that label their parts to computer simulations. Similarly, ideas include individual beliefs and preferences, the rules that groups such as classrooms follow, and historically developed concepts that span generations. My research examines how individuals coordinate their actions and ideas within these complex settings, and how this can lead to learning.
I direct the Representations, Activity, Play and Technology (RAPT) Lab, and do most of this work in collaboration with my team. You can see more about the lab at RAPTLab.org.
This seminar will be streamed and recorded via Zoom for remote attendees.
Zoom: https://go.illinois.edu/immerseseminar091825