Integrating Hypotheses and Constructionism

Generating and testing hypotheses is often thought of as something done only in science classrooms, but this is not necessarily the case. People generate and test hypotheses many times everyday and do not even think about it. In order to be good problems solvers, students must learn how to create valid hypotheses and then find efficient ways of testing them. Technology allows students to do just that.

In my science classroom, students often do measurements using probeware that uploads directly to a laptop computer. The students then use software to create tables and graphs of the data to help them draw conclusions about the hypothesis that they have tested. By using the technology, instead of just measuring and graphing by hand, the students get experience dealing with computers that will be valuable as they go to college and enter the work force. It is also a much more efficient use of time. Many of the tedious and repetitious tasks that students used to have to complete on their own can now be done in seconds using computers.

Another way that science students can create and test hypotheses is to pick a controversial issue and make a stand. The students could make a stand based on what they already know. When they do this, they are creating a hypothesis. The could then research the topic to test whether they have a valid hypothesis and then present their findings to the class. Not only are they questioning their current beliefs and testing them, but they are also engaging in constructionism. By creating an artifact to show what they have learned, the students will be better able to remember.