Analysis of Wiki and De Bono's Thinking Hats Task

Task 1: Week 2

Analysis of Wiki and De Bono's Thinking Hats 

The design elements of the wiki program enable students to address a topic from a variety of perspectives.  The program is developed in a way that offers and encourages collaboration with peers, to build on and extend cognitive processes. It also challenges thinking and asks learners to consider a range of viewpoints. Students can contribute information by using the options positioned at the top of the wiki to alter font, style and so forth.  The table format allows students to navigate and add information with ease, thus avoiding confusion.

There is evidence that certain learning theories are supported in the wiki design. Connectivism, a theory based on learning in the digital age, claims learning is strengthened through viewing and connecting different ideas and concepts via technological means (e.g. email, social networking, web search, blogging) (Siemans, 2004). Students thus develop technological and communicational skills that are a necessary to participate in society today. The foundation of the wiki is underpinned by this theory.

Problem solving skills and higher order thinking are key to the Cognitivism learning theory (Snowman et al. 2010). By answering the array of questions, individuals are required to delve into areas of the brain that draw on problem solving and higher order thinking. In addition, Cognitivism learning theory means that information must be organised and presented in an understandable manner (Snowman et al. 2010). The table format of the wiki is a reflection of this. Without realising, educators adopt teaching practices and methods that are indicative of these particular learning theories (Leonard, 2002).

I think this would be an effective teaching tool for the classroom to further knowledge, challenge thinking, and allow students to generate ideas in a positive and collaborative environment.  Information can be sourced online to inform arguments or viewpoints, so the aspect of researching can be used with this teaching tool. Students can extend their knowledge by discovering ‘the facts’ behind their ideas.

The purpose of the De Bono’s Thinking Hats is to deepen thought processes. It is an activity that broadens thinking, and avoids narrow-mindedness in relation to a chosen topic, question or concept. It stimulates the notion of ‘self-reflection’ in that thoughts are reflected on and redirected in accordance with each question.  The scaffolding of this task allows for solutions to be achieved, ideas to be put forth and evaluated and information to be presented in an appealing and systematic manner. Although this is an independent activity, it encourages communication and interactions between learners. It also teaches learners to be acceptant of others views and ideas.

Personally, navigating the wiki was a breeze. It is simple and easy to follow, leaving little room for misunderstanding.  In saying that, I took the easy route and merely added writing. The option of inserting images/files/ tables was available, however I refrained from scrolling my mouse over and clicking on these. This is because I like to keep things simple when it comes to technology.  I believe this may be due to my lack of competence with technology. Maybe next week I will step out of my comfort zone and leap into the technological world with more confidence.

References;

Leonard, G. (2002). Learning Theories : A- Z. WestPort, CT: Greenwood Publishing Inc.

Siemens, G. (2004).  Connectivism. A learning theory for the digital age. Retrieved from: www. Elearnspace.org/articles/connectivism.htm

Snowman, J. (2009). Psychology applied to teaching / Jack Snowman ... [et al.]. Milton, Qld: John Wiley & Sons.