Spatial thinking of 3-D thinking has a its strengths in education in spite of the fast-paced technology we are facing today. It is undeniable that tablets, laptops and smartphones created a big boost on education basics such as math and reading in a very convenient manner. However, traditional methods like play time can equal online leaning games when it comes to benefits.
The world as material as it is is very valuable. In strengthening the foundations of education, 3-D thinking is still the best tool. In a research done at the University of Washington, children between 1 1/2 and 2 1/2 gained indispensable language development by playing with letter blocks. Furthermore, the 2012 study,Effect of Block Play on Language Acquisition and Attention in Toddlersfound that those children who were given blocks to playhad significantly higher language scores than those who did not.
Tangible objects can really do wonders in inculcating learning to the minds of individuals. While many parents are having pressures on how their children can cope with the ever-changing technology the world now offers, it is crucial to keep in mind that a balance should be present to gain a more effective learning experiences for children. Children, especially the young ones can be kept off gadgets as in the long run, it could even prove valuable for later success.
Free play is vital not only at home but in school as well. Parents and teachers should encourage young learners to participate actively in plenty of games as these can improve both the physical and mental aspects of a child. Be as imaginative and creative. Traditional games can also be lots of fun. Remember how you were able to enjoy those games, there is nothing more interesting than to show the same passion to these children and before you know it, they are more eager in playing the games than you do.
References:
Griffith, J.L., Voloschin, P., Gibb, G.D., Bailey, J.R. (1983). Differences in eye-hand motor coordination of video-game users and non-users. Percept Mot Skills, 57(1):155–158.
McGaugh, J. L. (2000). “Memory—a century of consolidation”. Science 287 (5451): 248–251.
Wise, J., Kubose, T., Chang, N., Russell, A., & Kellman, P. (1999). Perceptual learning modules in mathematics and science instruction. Artificial intelligence in education: open learning environments: new computational technologies to support learning, exploration and collaboration, 169.
By: Lilibeth G. Navoa | Teacher I | Alauli Elementary School | Pilar, Bataan
