Problem solving and inquiry learning are two important concepts presented throughout the chapter. One best way to utilize these two concepts from my personal education, teaching experience, and classroom observation is by stealth learning. Most people learn by doing an activity. The ideas behind the activity are focused on academics and certain skills that people eventually learn without even knowing it. I learn my best when I am the one working on a project. For example, the video trailer. I learned so much just by doing it myself, yet there were steps that needed to be taken to create a finished product. I believe the same notion works for our students. As teachers or educators, we provide the hidden concepts in the lesson for our students to solve and develop thinking skills. The gaming world offers stealth learning. Students enter a virtual world where different skills are needed to move further throughout the game. Students are still learning, but with technology as an enhanced tool.
The virtual worlds and digital games reminded me of when I bought my eight year old cousin a Webkinz (Click Here) in 2008. She was so excited to receive a plush looking stuffed animal with a specific identification number attached. I felt like a digital immigrant because I did not understand the significance until she explained it to me. The identification number attached to the Webkinz was to register the stuffed animal into the virtual world. Apparently, there were children from all over the country registering Webkinz and interacting with each other. Six years later, who knew I would be reading about it in my technology class. My cousin, who is now fourteen, is continuing to socialize and interact with other people using technology in different ways, such as Facebook, Blogs, Chats, etc. To this day, I am amazed at how many children use virtual worlds and digital games, but do not realize the skills that are being learned, or developed.
Questions:
1. What are some skills-learning games for English teachers?
2. How do you feel about video games being implemented in the classroom? Explain.
3. Writing is an important skill that is currently evolving in the digital world. Do you think a course should be offered on digital writing? Why or Why not?
