Blog Post #3 Technology Tool to Integrate into the Curriculum

 

    I learned about Bloxels this week, which is a technology-enabled tool that emphasizes interactive, hands-on learning that can integrate seamlessly with early childhood education. Bloxels uses students' love for video games to create an engaging, interactive, and educational environment. It combines character, environment, and challenges into a video game format so students can design, code, play, share, and collaborate. Bloxels simplifies game creation. Students can build with physical blocks on the Bloxels gameboard or directly in the app, then add interactivity like animations and movements. This platform helps students develop essential skills in a high-tech setting. Students can share their games globally, enjoying the experience of others playing their creations.

 

    One effective model for integrating technology is  SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition). Below is a more detailed examination of this model and how it applies to Bloxels in a K-2 classroom.

SAMR Model

Substitution:

Use: Students use Bloxels instead of traditional drawing or crafting materials to create characters and scenes.
Example: Instead of drawing characters on paper, students design them using the Bloxels gameboard and app.
Benefit: It provides a digital medium for creativity without changing the fundamental task.

Augmentation:

  • Use: Bloxels enhance the task by adding interactive elements and immediate feedback.

  • Example: Students design characters and see them come to life and interact in a game environment.

  • Benefit: Increases engagement and provides instant gratification, making the learning process more interactive and enjoyable.

Modification:

Use: Bloxels allow for a significant task redesign, incorporating game design and programming elements.
Example: Students create a game level that requires problem-solving and storytelling, integrating multiple skills.
Benefit: Encourages higher-order thinking skills and a deeper understanding of narrative structure and logic.

Redefinition:

  • Use: Bloxels enable tasks that were previously inconceivable without technology.

  • Example: Students collaborate on game projects, sharing their creations with peers and receiving feedback from a global community.

Benefit: Expanding the learning environment beyond the classroom promotes global collaboration and digital literacy.

Ways that Bloxels can be Integrated into the Curriculum 

1. Storytelling and Literacy:

Students use Bloxels to create characters and settings from a book they read, then design a game level that retells part of the story. This reinforces comprehension and narrative skills.

2. Math and Problem-Solving:

Students design a game where they must solve math problems to progress. This could 
involve counting, addition, or shape recognition, making abstract concepts concrete and interactive.

3. Social Skills and Collaboration:

Students work in pairs or small groups to design a game promoting teamwork and communication. They learn to share ideas, give and receive feedback, and work towards a common goal.

Resources for Using Bloxels

Bloxels EDU: Getting Started Guide

https://www.bloxels.com/education/education-getting-started 

  • Provides comprehensive information on setting up and using Bloxels in the classroom, including lesson plans and activity ideas.

Bloxels Educator Hub

https://hub.bloxels.com/

  • Offers resources, tutorials, and a community forum for educators to share experiences and get support in using Bloxels effectively.

Bloxels’s Tutorial 

  • This video is about how to get started using Bloxels

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPZx3UAUoQc

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