Author Archives: joshmoore1995

Papert’s theory of constructionism is based on the theoretical basis for making, which is a stance toward learning that is predicated on the active construction of a shareable artefact. Not to be confused with the linguistically similar theory of constructivism, the theory of constructionism sees leaners move from passive receivers of knowledge, to real worldContinue reading “Constructionism and Makers Empire”

Many of today’s youth spend more time playing video games than interacting with more traditional forms of media such as television, film and books (Squire 2006).  When used correctly, video games are powerful tools that educators can adapt into their classroom practise and pedagogy to deliver meaningful and engaging learning experiences for students. In order toContinue reading “Games and Learning – Scratch and Sid Meir’s Civilisation”

Virtual Reality is a powerful and immersive technology that is beginning to become more prevalent in classrooms across the world and has the potential for some truly astonishing learning outcomes. Virtual Reality can transport students to completely new worlds of their own creation, put them in the shoes of astronauts in space or send themContinue reading “Virtual Reality – Oculus Rift, Google Cardboard and CoSpaces”

Augmented reality can be defined as technology that allows for virtual objects to be layered over the top of real world environments. It also allows for interaction to occur with the virtual objects. (Bower et al 2014). AR has become more common in the world today, partly due to the advancement and mass adoption ofContinue reading “Augmented Reality – Zapworks”

When we think of robots, many people’s thoughts go straight to the generic Hollywood interpretation of a mechanical humanoid that is programmed to be the slave of its human master. While not entirely true, robots are indeed machines that are programmed to carry out complex tasks automatically and while they can be designed to lookContinue reading “Robotics – Ozobot”

What is Computational Thinking? When hearing the words computational thinking, it would not be strange for someone to think that they refer to the way computers work, or perhaps may think of them as referring to programming languages. However, these are only small parts of what we mean by computational thinking. NESA defines computational thinkingContinue reading “Computational Thinking – Microbit and Code Combat”

Design Thinking – What is it? There are many different things we must consider when are talking about design thinking. Broadly speaking, it involves taking a design approach to real world problems (Koh et al 2015). Design thinking involves using creativity and a following a process to transform difficult challenges into opportunities for design. DesignContinue reading “Design Thinking and 3D Printing”

Minecraft is a ’sandbox’ video game where players can create structures and interact with the world around them by using a variety of different tools, such as a pickaxe for ‘mining’ and by assembling their creations with a number of different textured blocks. Minecraft can be used as a learning tool across any age groupContinue reading “Assignment 1 – Learning Technology Critique – Minecraft Education Edition”