Collaborative learning through project-based learning by EUN Partnership aisbl

Just a question...were the classes linked by an e-twinning project

2016-10-24 13:29:13 UTC

Manoilă Maria, Romania

2016-10-24 13:37:43 UTC

I believe that a collaborative effort is successful if it uses technology

The Power of Collaboration

kareri — 2016-10-24 14:02:14 UTC

"...the road is more efficient when you do it with company", Jorge Bucay, from his book "Let me tell you a story"

Marija, Croatia

MarijaK — 2016-10-24 14:14:28 UTC

This kind of collaborative working is especially efficient with engaging different personality and learning types of students. Those who are extrovert, active and motivated guide those who are maybe quite opposite. And the results of learning with peers are even better for both the student who teaches and helps and the student who needs a stimulation. The most important is that all the students participate, in the way they know the best.

Marta, Italy

maria_marzo1962 — 2016-10-24 14:19:00 UTC

Circle time is an effective technique that helps achieve various goals: it improves self-confidence and good relationships among the members of the class and allows kids reflect on their learning experience and contribute to enhance it.

Bojana Manic, Serbia

manic75 — 2016-10-24 14:23:09 UTC

I have done a similar activity within the eTwinning projects

Rosa Luisa Gaspar/Portugal

luisasgaspar67 — 2016-10-24 14:42:13 UTC

As Bojana, I have done a similar work with my kids and partners on a eTwinning project.
Project learning, also known as project-based learning, is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges, simultaneously developing cross-curriculum skills while working in small collaborative groups.

Jana T

oldpadlet — 2016-10-24 14:46:34 UTC

Feedback is important for the interaction between learners and the teacher(s). It shows that they take each other seriously and supports each other's development. However, I have not noticed any improvements working with feedback alone. The learners / teachers need a tool to guide them while working: e.g. checklists that have been discussed prior to the project. Unfortunately, I have seen quite a few projects where kids (and ultimately parents) are more or less left alone to find their own solutions.

Dalia, Lithuania. Very useful example of how to design and implement collaborative learning through PBL. Yet, again, we only have 1 computer in class and multimedia. So not much can be done in such a classroom although we do our best.

baltijadm — 2016-10-24 15:01:22 UTC

Stefania Z. Rome

2016-10-24 15:22:11 UTC

I'm agree with the affirmation "Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used’. The technolgy allow us to discover and evalue the hide skills of the student.

Mafalda Lapa, Portugal

lapa_mafalda — 2016-10-24 15:28:45 UTC

I have teached using project based learning using feedback and even without technology it is possible. But I agree that tecnology can me a catalyst here. The main obstacle is the extension of the programmes that don't leave time for the teacher to have this approach.

Heidi Belgium

heidi_schrijvers — 2016-10-24 15:42:40 UTC

Yes I also did project based learning. We also like to work on the project in different courses (so each course put another objective to the project) and sometimes we even do cross class projects. This means 2 different classes work together on the project. We also do discuss what went ok and what not, how they can handle it differently. And they also give feedback to eachother. Technology is indeed important. I also think as a teacher you need to keep learning as well. (To keep up with all the available educational technology)

Lorena Olaru, RO

leoatomix — 2016-10-24 15:59:15 UTC

Collaborative learning is based on constructivist model and the use of the tools Web 2.0.

Cinzia, Italy

nicomd — 2016-10-24 16:11:52 UTC

I don't use the circle time described in the video but I usually ask for feedback to my students at the end of an activity. Technology is useful for collaborative learning and especially to involve students with special needs or less motivated students.

Francesca, Italy

francesca_lombardi1973 — 2016-10-24 16:25:52 UTC

I used in my classroom a project based approach, focused on developing problem solving, critical thinking and information processing skills and at the end of the group work we usually have circle time: it’s very useful because it affords the opportunity for the teacher and class to communicate with each other about issues which promote self-esteem and positive behaviour. Technology strategies nowadays are very important in all the classes.

Maria A., Serres, Macedonia/Greece

2016-10-24 16:25:58 UTC

I think it becomes more effective to use technology in a collaborative way and maybe the best is in pairs.

Roberta Minì, Italy

robertamini — 2016-10-24 16:34:22 UTC

At the end of a module I always discuss for the feedback with my students what are their feelings about the activity. These days, as they are about 16-19 yrs old, I've just suggested to record, in a sort of diary, positive and negative aspects encountered working in group and the way they eventually will solve them.
I agree with the teacher's statement as technology unites students while researching and sharing results not only inside their own group but also interacting with the others.

Helena Paixão, Portugal

helenagpaixao — 2016-10-24 16:46:28 UTC

Technology can facilitate collaboration among students but it´s not essencial. The use of technology stimulates students, since they love to use it.

Andrea Checchetti, Italy

dreache — 2016-10-24 16:56:38 UTC

PBl involves having clear ideas on the educational path to follow, the vision of the action that muste be implemented. For this reason it is necessary to know the cognitive styles of students, the different ways of learning and the different intelligences. The advantage of using PBL methodology is surely to bring students into contact with real world. And the technology helps.

Rossella, Italy

rossy2305 — 2016-10-24 17:16:48 UTC

In order to use correctly a BPL methodology is necessary to know the learning styles of each student and valorize his skills and abilities to create effective learning. It 'important to start from something they know and that is the reality that surrounds them in a concrete way, to create learning

Ana , Portugal

anasalonso — 2016-10-24 17:24:18 UTC

I never used the "circle time" described in this video but I always ask and stimulate feedback from my students. However, I agree that technology becomes very useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used.

Merle, Estonia

merle_pahn — 2016-10-24 17:31:45 UTC

I also have done with my class a similar activity within the eTwinning projects. Students are very interested with PBL- activity. They can be part of the learning process and can create new knowlegde by there own. They are learn more and feedback from students is always positive.

Maria Rita, Italy

mariarita_pepe — 2016-10-24 17:37:07 UTC

I certainly agree on the use of technology. It is a tool which becomes useful it there is an effective pedagogical plan underlying its use. As to the circle time, I have never used it myself but I have used other forms of activities stimulation reflection, peer assessment and self-assessment.

Rosa/Italy

rosadilonardo — 2016-10-24 17:46:46 UTC

Gisella de Liddo, Italy

2016-10-24 17:57:57 UTC

I have never used circle time but I always ask feedback from my students on the work done, and I ask for useful ideas to develop in the class. I still have to start working on PBL in my classes.

Fabiana Italy

fabiana2 — 2016-10-24 18:13:51 UTC

I also have done with my class a similar activity.
I, usually, used SCRATCH to create project.

Barbara Italy

dotriv — 2016-10-24 18:21:12 UTC

We have a circle time every morning (kindergarten) and this year I'm trying the PBL strategy . Let's see

Helen,

2016-10-24 18:22:13 UTC

We are currently working on a collaborative project in this way to study landscapes in Geography. We are using IT tools to conduct research within groups to create a final product. The children within the groups also have roles to keep the group on task. We have used personal and group evaluation tools to help the children reflect on their learning.

Maria Nikolova, Bulgaria

maria_n_ss — 2016-10-24 18:22:35 UTC

I'm absolutely agree!
My students love PBL lessons. Past two years they work in folklore motifs and produce two short films. They dvelope their knowledges in Bulgarian folklore, english and IT skills, social skills. Develop critical thinks, collaborative skills, skills to manage time, leadership, tolerance, presentation etc. They draw comics, write stories together. In this lessons they have fun time and learn through doing.

Carmen Carella, Marche, Italy

carmencarella — 2016-10-24 18:48:42 UTC

It is very productive the way the teacher in the video use the Circle Time practice because she gets useful feedback from the pupils in an informal way, in order to improve the projects she carries out.
Among the positive aspects is that the pupils may retain the information for good, as the work was done creatively by them with the teacher's help. I don't use this practice, I usually ask my students' opinion when needed, but they tend to express it in any case. I use technology in class, and a day without connection is now almost desperate because we work with tablets, presentations, projects, games, Google Classroom, etc. The bulk of information and data you get from the Internet for whatever PBL is such and the ideas and creativity are so many that you really need to organize your class in teams .

Popa Camelia Sanda, Romania

popacamy — 2016-10-24 19:22:23 UTC

Yes, I am agree that technology is useful especially in collaborative practices!
Every year I have projects with my students, like " The geometry of nature". I organize my class in teams and they need to use technology to search for information and to present their project to class. I did not use the circle of time , but I ask my students for feedback.

Cidalia Marques

cidaliam — 2016-10-24 19:22:42 UTC

I've already done similar activities to the circle time.
The students at first find it difficult, but with time they develop communication skills that improve their work group skills.
At first the group work is a little cahotic, but after a while they stick to the rules and learn to work together.
Technologies improuve the work they do in content and in presentation.

Inge,Austria

2016-10-24 19:25:58 UTC

I would even say that technology becomes essential in class in order to prepare our students for the future (their working life and their social life). A special benefit of IT for collaborative practices is that group members can work at a task simultaneously. Afterwards the teacher can easily check/assess the individual amount of work.

Marina Molla, Greece

mollamarina — 2016-10-24 19:32:23 UTC

I haven't used "circle time" but I always try to get feedback from my students. I have started to use rubrics which I find great. I am going to try out :circle time" as well. Technology is indeed very useful and effective.

Mariangela. Italy

mariangela_biel — 2016-10-24 19:35:36 UTC

When working on projects, for example eTwinning, we usually discuss about the work carried out, about what went well and what went wrong in order to do better the next time. This way students collaboration skills and attitudes improve and they get used to collaboration.

Technology allows students to collaborate both in the classroom and with their peers in projects.

Ana Ribeiro, Portugal

AnaRibeiro — 2016-10-24 19:39:43 UTC

I'm the school coordinator in an Erasmus+ project (with 4 projects in eTwinning) and so we have been developing some activities where students collaboration practices are needed. The major problem is to involve teachers at school not students...
I teach a vocational course and students who enroll this kind of classes are demotivated but usually show interest for these kind of activities. At the library, and as a Teacher librarian I try to instill students to make good use of web tools.

Isabel Graça, Portugal

2016-10-24 19:41:50 UTC

I have carried out some similar exercises, but now I will improve the process, giving more attention to the feedback and collaboration skills. I believe technology becomes useful, but teachers need to feel comfortable using it and have the necessary resources.

Angelamaria Galderisi

soleemare_a — 2016-10-24 20:06:38 UTC

I sometimes carry out a similar exercise to the ‘circle time’ described in this video, when I check the students’ progress in some classworks to monitor how the group work goes. I noticed that this helps to improve my students’ collaboration skills. The teacher states that ‘Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used’. I quite agree, because it can help students to be an active part of their learning process, but it’s better to act in a protected environment, such as school clouds, to avoid distraction and misunderstandings.

Angelo, Rivoli, Italy

Angelo — 2016-10-24 20:17:17 UTC

The final metacognition would be the exemplary conclusion of a teamwork. I can almost never get it, because the time of implementation almost never comply with the initial planning. In high school there's the biggest worry about the Syllabus.
No doubt the technology supports collaboration with a great wealth of solutions: the students remain always amazed by this, and often struggle to use the great potential offered by ICT to the collaboration.

Jorge Dias, Portugal

2016-10-24 20:21:07 UTC

The use of technology can reduce the asymmetries between the abilities of students. To promote project-based learning, the teacher should not forget the technology. In this conjecture, it is essential to foster moments of reflection in which students can express their constraints and highlight their greatest potential.

Carla, Portugal

2016-10-24 20:23:15 UTC

The use of technology allows students to interact more dynamically in collaborative work. By implementing a learning project-based educator / teacher allows students to develop skills in collaborative work area. The use of new technologies in project-based learning gives greater dynamic classes. In this type of class it is important to provide moments of discussion and reflection on the work.

Emiliana Rufo, Italy

emiliana_rufo — 2016-10-24 20:28:56 UTC

I usually organize collaborative activities in my classrooms. I use technology to create products on project-based learning. I have carried out activities based on CLIL as in the video. I use "circle time" to start the lesson, for example to make a brainstorming activity or at the end of the lesson to make a SWOT analysis of what we have produced and to reflect on collaboration.

Monica, Italy

monicagiansanti — 2016-10-24 20:30:42 UTC

I find this experience very interesting and inspiring, and the video is very suggestive to well understand the work and the activity. I agree with all the reflections of the italian colleague

Tiago, Portugal

tiagotadeu — 2016-10-24 21:03:57 UTC

I haven't done something like that, but i can certainly agree that technology raises the awareness and focus of the students.

Massimo Italy

massimo_pescato — 2016-10-24 21:07:43 UTC

I've never carried out a similar exercise to the 'circle time' described in this video, but I often discuss with my students how the lesson went, I like to have a feedback from them, I think that it is a good way for improving the effectiveness of our work.

Maria Stalia, Greece

mastalia — 2016-10-24 21:15:41 UTC

I wish I had this kind of technology in my classrooms (no interactive whiteboards, wi-fi connection in the classroom is weak, number of laptops available is limited). It is invaluable for this kind of project work. Circle time is a good idea which I intend to use for getting feedback myself.

Carmen Rodriguez

c_rodvix — 2016-10-24 21:22:07 UTC

I carry out circle time exercises specially while doing project- based learning activities such as eTwinning. Sometimes we do it at the beginning to discuss possible ideas and activities related to the topic we are going to develop but also at the end of the lesson to sum up and assess our performance. In general children like expressing their own points of view and it' s enriching to see some of their comments. It's important to provide moments of discussion between children and teachers.
I agree with the idea that technology can benefit children's performance specially when working collaboratively because it offers tools that can help us to work and communicate to others (Skype, twinspace, collaborative online tools...) and sometimes it would be more difficult to do it in a "traditional way". On the other, technology is a powerful tool also when used individually because children can express their own ideas and creativity.

Susana Vasconcelos, Portugal

susanavasc — 2016-10-24 21:38:42 UTC

I've already done similar activities with and without technology. I agree that technology is very usefull but not essencial to promote
Collaborative learning through project-based learning. But, technology is actually the base of comunication, an important media of comunication, and a motivation to our students.

Carla Diogo, Portugal

tgeiepbjcporto — 2016-10-24 22:01:20 UTC

I'm completely in love with this video. This is the type of classes I like and that I think have good results. Unfortunately, in my school this type of technology is missing but that will not be a reason not to try something similar...

Alex_PT

teacheralex_dua — 2016-10-24 22:10:47 UTC

Last year I challenged one of my classes for PBL and they loved it. However, it was a bit difficult for parents and other teachers to accept what I was doing as it was so different from the traditional classes as much as the kids loved it: Sts took photos of their surroundings according to some topics (public buildings / houses / rooms and furniture), shared all in a common padlet and then in groups and with the material previously shared by all, they created a kahoot quiz for their classmates. In the end there was a focus group. According to their opinions, it really helped them as a group to create a tighter community and, in this case, it would have been impossible to carry it out without technology and collaboration.

Antonietta cimo

2016-10-24 22:10:48 UTC

Maria Daniela Roberto

2016-10-24 22:16:22 UTC

I happened to play in class a workshop activities, during which thepupils were divided into small groups, each led by an alumnus"spokesperson". The use of technology in this experience wasinstrumental, together with the Exchange and dialogue betweenpeers, which strengthened the sense of belonging to the group.

António Faria, Portugal

2016-10-24 22:20:11 UTC

This a very interesting video. Never done “circle time” when using PBL, like this, usually discussion is around the table involving all the group members. The situations implemented in class using PBL and collaborative work have been described by my students as extraordinary moments of learning. So, I think these are important ways of teaching. The technology is a major upgrade in class and gives students effectiveness on using these devices.

Betina Astride (PT)

2016-10-24 22:20:58 UTC

For the last 7 years, eTwinning has been a great way to learn how to achieve a collaborative learning. Step by step I’ve been doing my best towards collaboration and PBL but I know I still have a long way to go.

Marisa Badini, Italy

marisa_badini — 2016-10-24 22:24:24 UTC

I really appreciate this inspiring video that fits my aims. A CLIL approach through PBL, enhancing collaborative learning and meta- cognition is what i'm trying to achieve. eTwinning projects are a great opportunity to foster collaoborative learning, and I'm always eager to learn more and reach the most of effectiveness in my teaching practice. Thanks for this great example!

Daniela Pagnini, Italy

daniela_pagnini — 2016-10-24 22:53:24 UTC

I have carried out similar exercises to the ‘circle time’ described in the video during my CLIL activities. I explicitly discussed with my students the groups’ works, the positive and negative aspects and about the solutions.

In general cases these kind of activities are really engaging for students, because they improve their thinking skills and their critical thinking. Moreover student feel more self-confident in working in groups due to the benefits of their mutual collaboration.

Naturally the use of technology in class implements activities and gives useful tools that enhance collaborative practices.

João Sá, Portugal

joaosa — 2016-10-24 23:28:55 UTC

I don’t call it ‘circle time’, but at the end of each module I usually do a reflexion with the class, considering positive and negative aspects. I agree that technology could help sometimes, but not every time and in every situation. I think we should use technology when it is useful and choose not to use it when it is not helpful.

Conceição Aleixo, Portugal

caleixonline — 2016-10-25 00:40:04 UTC

I try to en all my sessions at library school with a circle time and in class (I teach Digital Literacy to 5th grade) I also try to maintain that practice.

I agree that technology is really useful in collaborative practices because it allows the participation of all the elements of a group and can be a powerful resource to maintain the group’s focus in the work to be done.

Mirjana Jovanovic, Serbia

mirjana_jovanovic_ns — 2016-10-25 08:28:14 UTC

I have never carried out project base learning with the whole class, but I did some projects with students interested in doing some research. Last year we set up a project "Menger sponge" in order to engage as many students as possible and to learn something about fractals. The project passed really well, and most of our students contributed in many ways - folding business cards, building the fractal itself, researching about fractals generally and exploring the properties of this specific one and presenting their results. We even embedded it in our regular 11th grade curriculum - areas and volumes, geometric sequences and series, limits... So I think this course will enable me to learn more about PBL in order to improve my skills and to help my colleagues and students to improve theirs.

Tim Gayton - Sweden

2016-10-25 09:09:50 UTC

Discussion of group process most often comes up during the process when dealing with the challenges of group work - cooperation, uneven input, uneven ability. Often lift that school group work is a training ground for future work where one must work in groups with people one would not oneself choose.
Technology is helpful and fun - but with school students' and teachers' knowledge levels, technology does not always give increased efficiency.

Gaia, Italy

gaialombardi69 — 2016-10-25 09:22:25 UTC

I've realized project based activities during my CLIL lessons. With less technology and more hand practical work...
Group brainstorming and group discussion are most important moments, because each pupil can give his opinion and share his ideas.
On this video: it's very interesting that in a 5th grade of a primary school pupils can use conditional verbs in English. Usually, they have problems to use them in Italian...

Maria Nica Italy

mariellanica — 2016-10-25 09:40:00 UTC

The technology is important in learning because it allows you to connect to remote in real-time with other schools. However this type of learning requires more time and wider spaces to articulate the lessons differently. Italian schools unfortunately do not always have these possibilities

Betta, SA - ITA

anicia1 — 2016-10-25 11:06:32 UTC

I am amazed at seeing 5th year elementary school children working in such a collaborative and focused way. I did group projects with my students, but always in small groups and not using all these technologies. I think it is because I have never been trained in such a way and I haven't participated myself in any group project during my school years. I have never carried out the 'circle time', I will definitely try it next time.

Sarah Mallia, Malta

sarahborg85 — 2016-10-25 11:07:25 UTC

I do carry out circle time however only during the PSD lessons. The boys sit on a fusion placed on the floor in the shape of a circle and we discuss things which are a little bit more personal. The students also share ideas and this different and informal setting makes them feel more comfortable and relaxed. I agree with the statement about technology as the latter is an effective tool to be used by all students even in groups where roles are divided and the task is simplified.

AnaŽČ

anaznidarec — 2016-10-25 11:24:35 UTC

You are sharing with us such a great examples - thank you!!

Elisabetta Mauro, Italy

mauro_elisabet1 — 2016-10-25 11:48:58 UTC

Interesting activity especially because it was shared with the Irish school. How did you get in contact with the Irish colleagues?

Stella Maris Berdaxagar from Argentina.

SMBerdaxagar — 2016-10-25 12:41:05 UTC

A great example of global awareness and 21st Century hard and soft skills in action. It helps learning be collaborative, shared, assessible and memorable .

Danijel F. - Croatia

danijel1210 — 2016-10-25 13:58:44 UTC

I'm also suprised how this students in video work with technology. Because I'm an ICT teacher only in my dreams I can see that, little ones work like big people. But I make some changes while I work in my school and I see changes.

Annamaria Egido

2016-10-25 14:21:49 UTC

Italy
In collaborative learning the less controlling the teacher , the better the students will performance.

Maria Papavasilopoulou, Greece

user_1412170174 — 2016-10-25 14:26:29 UTC

I often carry out a similar exercise to the circle time, where there is feedback and we discuss our positive and negative points of te project

Silvia Patrizia Ruggeri, ITALY

silviap_ruggeri — 2016-10-25 14:31:19 UTC

I've carried out a similar exercise to "circle time" described in this video after I could reflect on this strategy in some workshops I could benefit from it as trainee. Students prefer collaborative activities, even if it for me more demanding above all in time to organise similar activities.
Definitely I agree with the state ‘Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used’, because last year I was in classroom with a LIM and a notebook, now I'm in classroom without LIM and without notebook and even if I've my tablet and I ask my students to utilise their smartphone, it's not always easy as last year with a big LIM.

Valerica_ Romania

dvaly2010 — 2016-10-25 14:43:17 UTC

During our etwinning projects we always do such activities. Children like interacting with their friends and collaborate to obtain a final product. In the classroom I use technology with my students in collaborative activities ( egz. We had a project called Evolution of means of transportation, and they had to read, to select information, to make models of the means of transportation , to make PPT presentations). Children had fun and liked very much the project. They were in the 4th grade.

Stefania D., Italy

stefaniadeplano — 2016-10-25 15:16:10 UTC

I’ve never carried out formally a ‘circle time’ exercise. I think it can be very useful to improve a kind of awareness in students’ collaboration skills. I totally agree with the idea that ICT becomes useful in tasks or projects based on collaborative practices because most of 21st century web tools are collaborative in their own nature. Developing collaboration skills is probably the first educational objective to have in mind when using digital tools, it’s one of the fundamental aspects in building students’ digital competence.

Evi Karella-Greece

spevispevi — 2016-10-25 15:20:50 UTC

I've carried out collaborative exercises to the "circle time" but in lower level activities since my students are just 5 years old.

Sandra Alves - Portugal

2016-10-25 15:26:42 UTC

Technology is an important means of communication and motivation for students.Unfortunately, in my school still can not implement something of that. However it is possible to develop collaborative teaching with a little less technology and more imagination..

Alessandro Zampa, Italy

2016-10-25 15:35:47 UTC

I certainly work on meta-cognitive processes and promote in every possible way critical reflection on all the activities, but I have never used the circle time exercise. Anyway, groups are encouraged to exchange experiences, are open to changes and periodically its members are required to report on the group's achievements to the others.

Alexandra Figueiredo, Portugal

2016-10-25 16:06:11 UTC

I work with one class in project-based learning and I see them very interested, collaborative and trying to learn more and more.

Kaisa, Finland

kaisalaunosalo — 2016-10-25 16:15:49 UTC

Project-based learning is something that we have to incorporate in our teaching here in Finland. I hope to get new ideas from the course

Teresa Meli

meliter1 — 2016-10-25 16:33:32 UTC

The technology is indispensable in learning cooperative

Cristina Paliotes

paliotes_cristina — 2016-10-25 16:40:26 UTC

In my room I try to promote several times the activity "circle time", not such a depth as that which is described in the video.
I do not use technology when students work in groups, however there is a space for reflection / discussion and presentation of the work and the process.
The greatest difficulties arise through the involvement of all students in the tasks they are intended, I believe that these difficulties could be alleviated if the students worked in groups more often.
The use of technology would be an asset if the classroom had a computer for each working group.
Moreover, many of the students do not have access to this technology at home.

Teresa Faneca, Portuga

teresafaneca — 2016-10-25 16:47:17 UTC

I never carried out a similar exercise. However I found this group work very interesting because students had the opportunity to evaluate their work, finding solutions to the less positive aspects. The use of technology when conducting collaborative work in the classroom is important for any age because it motivates and arouses students' interest for learning.

Angela Colli

luriboni — 2016-10-25 16:48:26 UTC

I think that technology is helpful in collaborative teaching, especially fro STEM

Catarina Rodrigues, Portugal

canrodrigues — 2016-10-25 16:49:26 UTC

I found this video very interesting. However I never carried out an exercise like this. In my school technology is not very used and teachers aren't prepared to use it. Motivating student's is central in learning environments.

Maria Teresa / Italy.

teresarughi — 2016-10-25 16:50:30 UTC

I use PBL in etwinning and some practices have become a routine also in the everyday lessons. I usually carry out the "circle time"twice: at the beginning of a lesson, when students discuss in groups about what they have learnt so far and where we are up to,and at the end of the lesson when we discuss about pros and cons of what we have done.Technology helps a lot, because there are lots of tools that facilitate discussion and cooperative learning

Costas Moschonas

2016-10-25 16:56:06 UTC

I have never practised this method before. I think that technology make things more easier .

Maria Panou/Kalymnos, Greece

maria_themelis — 2016-10-25 17:27:24 UTC

I felt such jealous!!! My poor school has white tables and a projector. But, yes, we try to work on teams, using pictures from internet and discuss about them. We use titanpads writing stories and then we use storyboardthat.com to create our stories together. You can see our comic here and also at these links you can see our discussion about at tricider.com tool. I agree that technology can be a gift to teachers and students. We were knitted two years ago for buying a board and laptop and projector and we are fighting this year to pick up olives from our school's yard to buy another mobile projector, trying to be as flexible as we can.

Barbara.Italy

barbara_benso — 2016-10-25 17:29:20 UTC

We've done something similar in a Comenius Project. It was a great learning (and teaching) experience!

Giuseppe. Italy

profgcorsaro — 2016-10-25 18:05:38 UTC

Thanks for ideas. Thanks to Francesca Panzica. :-)

Richard Nagel

2016-10-25 18:33:45 UTC

That looked like a great set of lessons and has inspired me to create a video link with another class! Technology in the classroom is always useful but it is especially useful when used in this way. I agree, as many different learning styles can be catered for. What is important is that all children receive roles in the group, and that these roles are rotated. I carried out a circle time today after we finished our end product today: it is an important way to reflect upon what went well, what could have been better and how to resolve difficulties. I love this way of teaching as it really engages the children!

Alena Jandlová, Czechia

2016-10-25 18:40:48 UTC

We use a circle time activity in international projects, sometimes in lessons, but should definitely devote more time to this. The video was very inspiring, offering ideas how to use technology meaningfully in a class project.

Serena, italy

serenavisai — 2016-10-25 18:58:54 UTC

I haven’t tried ‘circle time’ yet, but I often ask feedback to my students. I see that as a point that I have to improve because I am aware that working in group is more effective and the use of technology boosts their interest in the topic. However, for me it is a double edged weapon since we often have problems with our tools and I feel that I waste a lot of time trying to make things work. It is of great help in the multi level class since it helps students to work in “stations” and have a variety of activities that develops written and oral abilities for a foreing language learning.

Clara Abegão, Portugal

acjesus — 2016-10-25 19:05:28 UTC

Whenever it´s possible I try to integrate technology in my teaching methods because I believe in a collaborative way of teaching/learning, and the use of technology promotes interaction, communication and collaboration, knowledge creation and of course, technology skills. I´m working now, at home, and at this proper moment, I have a student’s group working collaboratively using Google slides presentations (they are studying the cell), and from time to time, they ask for my opinion. I think the use of technology in teaching helps to build a sense of community, increases interaction and communication among the teacher and her students: it reduces the distance between the participants in the teaching learning process. It also enables students to become creators of knowledge and gives them the opportunity to create content themselves instead of just listening to lectures, and this supports active and student-centered learning in which students take responsibility for their learning. Teachers become facilitators of learning rather than a distributor of knowledge.

Cinzia Centrone

centrone_cinzia — 2016-10-25 19:15:06 UTC

I find "circle time" a good practice. At the end of an activity I usually discuss with my students in order what were positive and negative aspects and what they would like to change. This helps the students to become more conscious about their learning and it is also a good feedback for teacher. I think that technology is very useful when collaborative practices are used because it let learning in different ways, improving interaction, collaboration and also cretivity. Every student can find his own size in learning. Don't forget that technology increases motivation and the video proves it very well.

Rosella, Italy

rosella_manni — 2016-10-25 19:17:14 UTC

Students can work either offline or online. They can work alone on individual projects -- or they can work collaboratively as part of a project team. And, with the availability of the Internet and technology tools, their project partners can be across the table or around the globe. Students can interact with one another in meaningful educational, cultural, and scientific projects that provide deep learning experiences.

Isabel Nunes, Portugal

2016-10-25 19:44:19 UTC

Being the classroom a privileged place for each and any students’ activity, the organization and management of the space and theTechnology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used’, are a very important factors in the implementation of any activity, especially on the promotion of a project-based learning. As a special needs teacher and still a school leader working in partnership with the class teacher, I intend to include special needs students in collaboration with other students in a Project with these characteristics. Working on something that implies collaborative participation the tables have to be disposed in a way that will allow group work and allows the several students to sit near each other, favoring the inter group dynamics and inter help. Each student should know what to do, how and when. The tasks are done in a interdependent way, however I think that individual objectives can be different for each student in a group. The success of each task depends on the work of everyone ��9��S�|g

marinorosaria60 — 2016-10-25 19:59:56 UTC

Rosaria Marino
I often ask my students to reflect on the activities undertaken in the classroom and at home. I created a paddle that I called diary raccoglere own board for all their comments, which then discuss together. I fully agree on the importance of technology to facilitate collaborative work..

Ariana Vacaretu, Romania

ariana_vacaretu — 2016-10-25 21:02:35 UTC

I organize group work assessment - sometimes as a round-table discussion with the whole class, sometimes each group self-assess their work whithin a group discussion or sometimes students write their reflection on the group-work.
I agree the "Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are use" - but, during the lessons we rarely use technology for collaboration.

Chiara Ricci, Italy

2016-10-25 21:19:46 UTC

Always very interesting and inspiring to see how other colleagues work! I think the final circle time is fundamental to make students responsible for their learning and as for any experience , they must be aware that there are pros and cons. In fact the final feedback becomes an integrating moment of growth. Technology is a means the students must learn to use at their best for their future and it is also fun for them

Ana Fernandes, Portugal

apmfm — 2016-10-25 21:29:45 UTC

I think I've carried out a similar exercise to the "circle time". It took place with 12th grade students in a subject called "Project Subject" in partnership with the organization Junior Achievement Portugal which integrates the Junior Achievement Worldwide International Organization. It aimed to develop entrepreneural skills on the teens.
They had to create a company in order to invent a final product non existent on the market yet.
One activity of this kind can only be developed with task division and work share.
The monitorization of the work was made by checking the atualization of an archive portfolio and through group diary register.
This type of collaborative work was motivator, has envolved actively all the members of the group and has appealed to their criativity. It has deepened the student's collaboration skills with positive effects in other subjects and their personal life.
Tecnology is very useful and essential in "Project Subject". In the end, apart from the final creation of a product they also built a website associated to their company.

Carlos Silva, Portugal

2016-10-25 21:44:05 UTC

I work with projects that leads students into a final product, but the "circle time" is not used. Evaluation is made only on paper and i don´t have time to discussion. Maybe i should spend more time for final discussions about the process and results.

Maria Indirli Italy

ndrmra — 2016-10-25 22:09:01 UTC

In my hours of math lesson I have never used the circle time. But I think you'll use later as students reflect on their strengths and weaknesses. I used the circle time in Outdoor training activities. In these cases, the debriefing was used to analyze the experience, the management of conflict and the positive report of the Group.

Anna Nervo

laclassenelweb — 2016-10-25 22:10:29 UTC

I really appreciate this video. I liked the activity and the assessment at the end with the circle time.

Teresa Oliveira

toliv2 — 2016-10-25 22:18:22 UTC

Yes, I already have done similar exercises. I think that this type of activity provides more productive information if we carry it out more often. Students become more familiarized and we get better information.
It is not always easy to do this type of activity in classes, but sometimes, if we just do an "exit ticket" , with Socrative app, we can have good feedback.

Arlindo Pereira, Portugal

2016-10-25 22:29:23 UTC

Very times I worked with my students using a methodology through project- based learning. At the moment its possible use more tools and
tecnology but the methodology is very similar. A similar exercise to the ‘circle time’ described in this video, its very usual and necessary to achieve the objectives of the project. It is important that students have knowledge of the procedures involved to work with this methodology. I think that it can sometimes be easier to apply with some students and in the lower age groups. I agree about the utility of the techology in class especially when collaborative practices are used because is an important means for comunication and motivation to the students and to the teachers.

Odete Pinho

modetepinho — 2016-10-25 22:51:11 UTC

I agree with that idea because the technology has to be used to get information and help the students learn with collaborative practices.

Petra, USA

drpe — 2016-10-26 00:54:05 UTC

I have not tried ‘circle time’ as described in the video, but I had group discussions in class; and students also wrote individual reflections about what worked and what they would want to change next time (Google Forms). I agree that technology becomes useful in class because it can foster collaboration; it can give shy students a voice; it can access different skills. It gives students choices regarding how they want to express what they have learned.

Isabella Santoro, Italy

2016-10-26 04:21:33 UTC

I find this activity very Amazing and interesting for to understand collaborative learning through project-based learning. I think that technology is necessary in class when you want to use collaborative practices because everyone in a Group can express as better their own potentialities. I've never carried out the "circle time2, but i'm going to use it as well

Ana Martinčević, Osijek

novoselic_ana — 2016-10-26 06:04:34 UTC

I've never done it this way. I like and I'll try.

Zeljka Korlevic, Slatina

mravak57 — 2016-10-26 09:22:09 UTC

I am a math teacher and have a lot of difficulties in motivating students to practice. So I think it s a way to go.

Caroline Lecompte, Belgium

lecompte_caroline — 2016-10-26 09:42:55 UTC

It looks really great, but very difficult to implement in my school. I agree with the teacher that technology is useful/needed in a classroom, but sadly, we don't have all the technologies and there is no budget to buy computers, smart boards, ....

Kristina Kaučić Croatia

2016-10-26 11:00:56 UTC

I have never tried such an activity, but I might. Nice idea. Technology can help me in this activity. As I teach in secondary school and my students are 15 - 19 years old, by the aid of Tricider I ccan do assessment but not in the class. They can do it for homework

Sander Vreven, Belgium

sander_vreven — 2016-10-26 12:02:37 UTC

Sadly I have never carried out a similur 'big' collaborative classproject. Mainly because my students are not used to it and I just don't know how to start with this!
Also, it's good to see the use of technology but sadly I don't have this in my school. We only have a limited number of computers, ...etc.

Ana Chambel, Sesimbra Portugal

tichachambel — 2016-10-26 14:08:04 UTC

I use the circle time quite often as a form of reflection / discussion after the work is done in the classroom.
In this discussion the group evaluates the work and discusses the positive and negative aspects in order to improve the work.
I've used the PBL methodology at various times, both in projects e-twinning either in class projects with other classmates and I noticed that the 21st century skills for are developed more easily with the use of technology.
However my school does not have an ICT room or the ideals resources for the development of projects such as the one shown in the video, in addition to this difficulty, classes are usually large and the students do not have access to this technology at home.

Alessandro Ruffino / Italy

2016-10-26 14:31:28 UTC

Yes, I often use "circle time" to discuss about an activity developped where I try to stimulate my students what about they have learnt, what about difficult they found, if it was difficult about topic or relationship and so on ... I think it is a good method to understand their progresses. I totally agree with teacher of video about TIC.

Caterina Fantini, Italy

cate_67 — 2016-10-26 14:42:34 UTC

I totally agree with the teacher of the video about TIC. Unfortunately my school and my class aren't so technological, but when I can, I work in collaborative projects.

Snezhana Tsonkova, Bulgaria

s_tzonkova — 2016-10-26 14:49:24 UTC

I had a similar lesson today in a similar classroom, using Padlet.com as a project wall . The lesson was focussed on European countries. The children worked in groups, did some research, wrote the information on the project wall and next time they are going to present it to the class.

Sonia Scribano Italy

soniascribano53 — 2016-10-26 14:57:22 UTC

Project based learning through technology is great as it caters for all the different learners especially special needs ones. It is great to use it to work collaboratively with another school abroad and use the video conference. Circle time is a great way of assessing this group work and I like the fact she asks two members of each group to tell her what they have learned. I would like to try it.

Nils, Germany

2016-10-26 15:12:24 UTC

I did those discussions very rarely. maybe I should do it more often.
I tried a few collaborative tasks while using eTwinning. It worked well with the interested students but with most it didn't work at all because they didn't take it seriously

Elisabete Carvalho, Maria Araújo, Olga Seabra, Paula Cavadas, Paula Usha_Portugal

7bsobrado — 2016-10-26 15:13:34 UTC

The video illustrates a wonderful learning environment that we would love to implement but our school lacks most of technology tools. We consider group brainstorm and group discussion very important moments in our daily work with students. The classroom should be a place that all knowledge matters and students should implement tasks in a democratic setting. A lesson plane does not exist because it is reveled at the end of the project it combines several subject of different disciplines and students can implement different cognitive approaches.

Elisabete Carvalho, Maria Araújo, Olga Seabra, Paula Cavadas, Paula Usha_Portugal

2016-10-26 15:15:50 UTC

Viviana, Italy

vivianasavino75 — 2016-10-26 15:26:07 UTC

Stunning! Never seen a similar classroom in my teaching experience. By the way.. "Circle time" is a popular exercise in the Primary school. I know teachers who make "Circle time" every morning and others who does after a theraplay session, for example. I think that it can be very useful, if done by expert teacher; if not, it can have disastrous effects on children. By the way, expert teachers can effectively improve students' collaboration skills, even in "problematic" groups. This is my real experience. I agree with the teacher when she states that technology can be useful in class, especially if all pupils have an ipad or a computer to work with and collaborate with classmates.

Iolanda Moya, Spain

2016-10-26 15:41:23 UTC

Well, I love seeing these kind of activities in videos like this. But in my reality I have several problems with group activities. I tried to work in activities like this but they argue for silly things such as; who uses the computer in group, or there is always one or two students who do all the work and the rest of the group spend their time talking, playing or something similar. If I can find a person in a situation like mine and he/she found a solution, please, tell me, because I would love working like this.

Armindo Serra, Ana Marques, Fátima Nave, Carmo Martins, Conceição Varela, Cristina Rocha, Edite Ferreira, João Reigado, Martine Mendes, Rita Gil, Stela Batinas, Sara Gamito - Portugal

mcrisroch1 — 2016-10-26 15:55:22 UTC

We have already shared this video in september when we started our colab project in our school. It was a very interesting and stimulating practice.
Circle time is already being used in our classrooms when our students do project-based learning.
Students become more engaged and responsible. This way we successfully promote autonomy and awareness.

Grazia Paladino, Italy

graziampl — 2016-10-26 17:02:30 UTC

I use circle time practice both in icebraker activities at the beginning of the school year when I have to introduce for the first time in the initial classes flipped classroom methodology, or during normal planning in the early stages of classroom activities. In this case I organize a brainstorming with the students in a circle around a single table The students discuss what they have learned with the video lesson or paper materials provided in advance so according to the principles of the flip class

sevim hazar/Turkey

2016-10-26 17:18:55 UTC

I agree Technology becames useful İn class .especially when collaborative practices are used’.

Tina M_Macedonia Greee

tinamellos — 2016-10-26 17:31:16 UTC

We tried to do sth similar last year and it went quite well! Technology was the key - if I may say - to our success in finishing the project on time! The most creative and productive part was the 'Reflect time' we had at the end of it: we flashed back through the different phases, we wrote down the positive and negative aspects, the deadends met, how these were overcame, what it would be done differently and in which way in order for it to go better.

Iliyana, Bulgaria

ipanayotova — 2016-10-26 18:35:43 UTC

I really liked this video. The teacher has done so much work as a facilitator and the kids are really collaborative! Personally I have never done “circle time”. The project work in my class is quite humble.

Emilia A./Romania

Emilia_T22 — 2016-10-26 18:50:24 UTC

A good example of collaboration for a PBL!I agree with that teacher that technology is useful in class .Actually it's more efficient that we can work anytime, anywhere in collaboration having technology.I haven't discussed with my students after a group work about what worked well or about negative aspects but I think "Circle time " looks to be an efficient method, a type of feedback of an activity.

emma giurlani

2016-10-26 18:59:32 UTC

a very good example of collaborating learning approach . PBL offers many opportunities of such collaboration also for collaborating assessment. I think such opportunities can be experienced through eTwinning projects which give the opportunity to collaborate with schools from all over Europe. I use to discuss with my students about the work of the group
asking first the group members to draw up a logbook of the group. We use also the chat on the eTwinning platform to discuss with our project partners: it is a sort of "Circle time" where we can reflect upon positive and negative aspects of our activities

Eduardo Pinheiro, Portugal

eduardojgpinheiro — 2016-10-26 19:17:21 UTC

I use several times throughout the teaching-learning process methodologies as those have seen in the video.
Students of secondary (15-17 years old) most of the time the process of preparation of group work is not analyzed but only the final product.
Students can improve their collaboration skills in the use of technology feel that constitute a real advantage, otherwise use technologies individually and isolate themselves.

Giovanna, Italy

giovanna_biceg1 — 2016-10-26 20:09:02 UTC

I always discuss with my students every single aspect of our collaborative work. I also ask them to evaluate yheir peers expressing the motivation they give one mark or another. In practice we analyze our learning process

José María Díaz, Spain

2016-10-26 20:57:18 UTC

Oh my god, I love the idea! Congratulations! I´ll take note! Let me think within my subject...

Cristina Teixeira, Portugal

2016-10-26 21:09:10 UTC

I think Circle Time is a very important aspect of teaching and learning skills because it's the perfect tool to evaluate a group's work, and discuss the positive and negative aspects of their work. In all lessons I also give my feedback to the students, gathering them in small groups, as well as for the entire class.

Ana Franco, Barcelos, Portugal

ana_lufranco — 2016-10-26 21:15:31 UTC

I think the collaborative work the most interesting in the current context of our students, who are multi-tasking, are scheduled to do several things simultaneously. However, in my discipline, and as I mentioned, our ministry took immense hours to the discipline of technology, is not as easy or integrate projects in collaboration with other colleagues, since we have a program to meet, and classes 45 minutes, the projects that I suggest to my students are then performed by them outside the classroom context. I help plan the work, give the objectives, give suggestions of what you can do, but it has to be at home, out of school to completion of the work. I'd love to take the time to implement these ideas even if it was in conjunction with other disciplines.

Elisabete Carvalho, Maria Araújo, Olga Seabra, Paula Cavadas, Paula Usha_ Portugal

2016-10-26 21:39:32 UTC

Ana Rochinha

ana_rochinha — 2016-10-26 21:54:50 UTC

I must say that is not easy to implement in my classes collaborative work ...I find myself with very different levels of knowledge of technology, immature students who only disrupt the group members and some end products that do not make me feel very confident in the face of learning acquired ...another problem I identify, sometimes (as rarely work in groups in the classroom), is the short time available for these activities (45 + 45 minutes); I believe, however, that some students are more motivated when using applications to work and develop activities in a foreign language

SIDONIA VOICA-ROMANIA

sidogeocris — 2016-10-27 06:06:17 UTC

The video illustrates un wwonderful context : the teacher explicitly discusses with students how the group work went, what were the positive and negative aspects and what could be solutions for the future,but in my classroom I :find diversity our understanding of how things work will be different, our cultural and linguistic references will be different...

Ivan Roblas, Philippines

markivanroblas — 2016-10-27 06:41:00 UTC

We have similar activities in the Science Explorer where students are given a project where they work together and learn about the project they are doing. The positive aspect of this is that the students learn to collaborate with each other. The negative aspect however is that some students do not actively participate in the group work. This can be remedied by making the number of students in a group fewer. I agree that technology is an enabling factor in class as it facilitates in the students' activities and let's them focus more on learning.

Eliana, Italy

2016-10-27 06:57:05 UTC

The idea of checking what worked and what did not work while working together is brilliant, so I will definetely try it. Technology is usefule, but (Thanks to God) not totally essential, or I would not be able to do anything, considering that I have never had the opportunity to work in such technologically-enhanced classrooms!

Paula Gomes, Portugal

2016-10-27 08:03:40 UTC

Cristiana Oliveira, Portugal

cristianafreire — 2016-10-27 09:07:50 UTC

I believe that the exercise "circle time" presented in this video is very useful; I apply it with some frequency because I want that students themselves identify negative and positive aspects as well as items to improve.

This exercise is also ideal to promote self-evaluation and peer evaluation of the final product presented.

I think the biggest advantage is the awareness of the work done and the possibility to identifying growth opportunities.

Collaboration habillities will improve over time; I believe that choosing the members of a groups it´s extremely importante and must take into account the different types of learning of each student, so that the final product become richer and reflects on the one hand, group capabilities without forgetting teh besto f each one.

The technology is useful as motivating but should not be an obstacle to the changes that are important in the classrooms. You can always do collaborative work with teachers from other subjets.

Carla Mansilha, Portugal

cmansilha — 2016-10-27 09:18:33 UTC

This type of activity is very useful and works very well with the students, particularly in this age group. I've been involved in a similar project between schools (eTwinning) and the result was frankly good.

Kimberley Edwards, Ireland

kedwards19 — 2016-10-27 09:41:55 UTC

This looks like a very intuitive and useful activity. I liked the way that each group was given a laptop and each student was given a role "facilitator", "quiet keeper" etc. I have not done an activity like this in my class however I find that it would be excellent as the groups work interdependently as the teacher goes around checking individual groups and it is a great way of peer assessment and AfL.

Elisabete Carvalho, Maria Araújo, Olga Seabra, Paula Cavadas, Paula Usha_Portugal

2016-10-27 10:15:04 UTC

In our school the furniture is displayed in a “classic way” although in some situations (laboratory activities; music and art classrooms; library; oriented group studies) teachers and students agree to rearrange the classroom space. We have one computer per classroom and the textbook still plays a major role. However the majority of us implement other instruments to create flexible and interactive classes. As teacher it is most of the times impossible to create a new class environment because first we are trying to develop a new approach “to how to acquire knowledge.” It means a development of new skills, of a different way of posture in class, a change of approach in the way we work with one another. The video reflects a change of mentalities, a reality still in work and still far from us. ��X:��

Anabela Gonçalves, José Rui Ferreira and Teresa Fonseca, Portugal

2016-10-27 10:36:20 UTC

Technology makes sense in any class, regardless of collaborative practices used, if it has a clear, simplifying and pedagogical purpose. Teachers and technology work together when optimal learning environments are created. It’s not always easy, though, be it because teachers are not, most of them, tech savvy or simply because technology fails in key-moments (no wi-fi signal, e.g.). Carrying out exercises like the “circle time” is common in our lessons as students have to help scaffolding their learning and they are engaged in the whole process, especially when it comes to assess advantages/disadvantages and difficulties felt throughout a project work.

Concetta Drago

concetta_drago — 2016-10-27 10:39:30 UTC

I usually use the "circle time" exercise at the end of a learning unit. It is useful for student for a better understand of the unit and also for me to verify the level of learning of the student in general.

sara, sassari. Italy

sarossa — 2016-10-27 13:19:50 UTC

group activities and project based learning are very fascinating, but they're also quite time consuming. And then there's the syllabus to complete, and if you teach mixed ability classes where many students hardly ever do homework or take part in playful easy classroom practice (even of the traditional kind), or have very little IT knowledge...well, it's not easy, to put it mildly. I believe the teachers of the same class should share group work practices, so that for the students it becomes second nature, and they acquire responsibility for the outcome of the activity itself.

Elena FP, Italy

2016-10-27 13:41:19 UTC

I must admit I have never used the "Circle time" in my teaching practice, but I can understand it is a very helpful way to make students aware of their own learning process.
I do use technology to enhance collaborative activities: an easy example is Padlet, I use it a lot for brainstorming, sharing ideas, summing up outcomes etc. ICTs are not essential but they are a good tool in order to engage pupils and teach them how to use technologies in a meaningful way.

Kaisa, Finland

kaisalaunosalo — 2016-10-27 14:03:41 UTC

No, I have't used the Circle Time in my teaching. I do use Padlet for brainstorming.

Jesus Leão, Portugal

2016-10-27 14:04:09 UTC

The project methodology, with which I identify, allows multidisciplinary work and potentiates collaborative learning.

Usually the assessment of the work is done in "circle time", analyzing the positive aspects and negative, making an assessment of the final product and the way students and groups worked.

This activity allows improving and adjusting the functioning of the groups, analyze the performance of students inside the groups, assess the strategies used and the results obtained, adopt other forms of teamwork and propose the exploration of new resources.

In fact, the technology is useful in the classroom, especially when collaborative practices are used. The use of these resources cover different learning styles, providing an answer to all students.

Chris Healy

2016-10-27 14:17:04 UTC

I havnt used circle time before but I have carried out evaluations and reflections with my students on how activities have went before and it is really beneficial to get their feedback for future reference. I agree that the technology is useful - the students these days are brought up around this technology, they know how to use it, they enjoy it. When students enjoy things they are more receptive to retaining the information.

Anita M. Italy

anitam3 — 2016-10-27 15:00:48 UTC

Project-based activities are good tips to launch and try Collaborative leraning as practice for a class .I use "circle time" with my classes , but I set a compulsory timing for it on my lesson plan /activity

Maria, Italy

mariadecarlo — 2016-10-27 16:15:35 UTC

I usually use the "circle time" at beginning of the lesson and at the end, but even during if necessary depending on the proposed activity. And I use other the brainstorming. Is a good practise.

Anna Italy

annagrignetti — 2016-10-27 16:16:45 UTC

I never used the "circle time" in my classes. I use to introduce a new unit with brainstorming. But i think should be a good practise!

Loredana,Italy

volpe_loredana — 2016-10-27 16:47:39 UTC

I haven't used the circle time before but I usually start the class with a brainstorming trying to collect all the relevant ideas which can be useful to do the lesson effective to them.

Olgica, Serbia

olgicaspasojevic — 2016-10-27 16:50:46 UTC

I often use the circle time at the end of my classes. Sometimes students discuss their work, sometimes we use padlet, survey or some other tool.

Margherita,Italy

margheritabalistreri — 2016-10-27 17:12:49 UTC

When we choose a topic students actively take part into the info-research.Different groups look for a certain kind of information, then they debate about what they have found. I find this collaborative learning very stimulating!I have sometimes used circle time.

Dimitra Zorba,GREECE

dimitrazoro1 — 2016-10-27 17:23:50 UTC

I am a P.E. teacher and i work with my pupils in groups very often.There are always positive and negative aspects and we are trying to found solutions.At the end this improve students collaboration skills.Of course technology is very useful ,especially in etwinning projects that we are taking part

Caroline Breyley, Scotland

2016-10-27 17:26:26 UTC

I always expect groups to reflect on their learning at the end of a project and sometimes at the end of an activity. Part of this reflection includes how they felt the group worked: what went well and how they might work differently next time if they think they could do things better.

Argiro Zikouli Greece

2016-10-27 17:59:00 UTC

I was thinking about that right before reading the question in this Padlet. In fact I am looking forward to applying that for next week! I'm sure it will improve at least my students' metacognitive skills! As for the second part of your question... I'm still thinking about it...

Irena, Poland

irenagd — 2016-10-27 18:14:31 UTC

From time to time I organise classes focused on project tasks, then collaborative outcomes are visible and students give feedback being questions in surveys. Afterwars i present tchem the results to discuss strengths and weaknesses.
I strongly agree that technology facilitates our lessons and constitutes to be an nevitable tool in education. For that reasonwe (teachers) need to adjust our methods of teachig to our students requirements (new generation necessity).

Carmela, Italy

melcunda — 2016-10-27 18:29:35 UTC

I usually use circle time when I want to assess a collaborative activity. I start asking if they liked what we did and the way we did it and they honestly say what went right and what went wrong.
Children like circle time, they feel free to say whatever they think about the topic and every child understands that his/her opinion is important for me and for the schoolmates.
About technology: I'm fond of it!
I use lots of technology in my teaching practice, children are used to it... and they like it a lot!

Nikos, Greece

nikosmouratog — 2016-10-27 18:31:59 UTC

I have used something similar in order to trace the positive and negative elements of an activity. Specifically, students were discussing and reasoning regarding their (dis)satisfaction accordingly. Namely, students had chosen five animals which corresponded to a Likert scale. The elements that had received more bees were those that students did not like much, whereas dogs and cats stood for those that they liked. Those "statements" were a result of a reflective discussion with the students, something that also helped them develop metacognitive and self-evaluation skills.

Kinda Ibolya, Brasov, Romania

kinda_ibyci — 2016-10-27 18:33:05 UTC

Yes, I always try to explain my students, about the team work, the collaborative learning. I think is very important to discuss with them this aspect.

Cristina, Romania,

cristinapeicuti — 2016-10-27 18:39:05 UTC

I carried out a similar exercise to the ‘circle time’ described in this video, where the teacher explicitly discusses with students how the group work went.

Maria Teresa, Italy

carmarter — 2016-10-27 18:56:53 UTC

Yes, I made a similar experience with my students in several eTwinning projects

Ida, Italy

DT22 — 2016-10-27 19:00:47 UTC

Interesting project. I always use PBL activity oriented to produce an artifact, and it it is often digital.

Orsola,Italy

2016-10-27 19:48:59 UTC

I appreciate this video and I think it is a good example of collaboration learning approach using technology. Sometimes I work on the same way using Padlet.I don't use circle time practice described but I usually discuss about the work with my students and I ask them for the feedback.

Paola Arduini, Italy

paolarduini — 2016-10-27 19:53:13 UTC

I'm so proud to be a friend of Francesca Panzica! Yes, I usually work with group discussions. With my colleagues we set discussions about any topic ; we record children and Technologies are fundamental! In my first years of teaching I used a tape recorder and then, at home, I transcripted their discussions using a Typing machine. Now I can use my tablet.
Here an example where fifth graders are discussing about a project launched by National Parliament: children were asked to prepare a draft of a law . They decided to write a new law for compulsory education and, in groups, wrote articles

Helena Louzeiro, Portugal

helenalouzeiro — 2016-10-27 20:06:43 UTC

Yes, sometimes i promote group discussions in my classes, and I think that in the beginning is very dificult to the students to do the evaluation of the group work, because they are afraid to harm their friends. Over time they realize that saying the positive or negative aspects of the groups, will help each other to improve their work. I have done some collaborative work, were each group draws or write a part of a story and after that we do a powerpoint or an ebook as a final product.
I agree that tecnology is very useful in class, because they can learn and help the colegues to improve more easily

Eros Grossi, Italy

eros_grossi — 2016-10-27 20:21:00 UTC

I think pbl is a good way for teacher to stimulate learning activity and, with the realization of a product, the evaluation's activity (one of the worse things for a teacher) is more simple. Indeed, a bad evaluation can be "the silent killer of learning" (E.Mazur). In addition, the project is very useful for arrange a cooperative learning approach and the new technology (as the video shows) helps a lot.

Nurcan ,Turkey

2016-10-27 20:30:47 UTC

Yes , I have experienced many similar exercises through etwinnnig projects.

Münevver, Turkey

2016-10-27 20:33:39 UTC

I have used circle time from time to time in my classes. Some of my classes are small and there are 12-20 students; so it becomes easy to check and help them or give extra information about the task. However, in my other classes in which there are 35 Students, it is not possible to use Circle time effectively. Hence, I just use circle time in my small Classes. As for collaborative work, group members learn about having responsibilities in a group and learn about trying to evaluate the others. Technology should be in the classes as a facilitator. If I use tech in theclasses it is proved that I can manage time effectively.

Margarida Cruz, Portugal

margarida_fcruz — 2016-10-27 20:43:02 UTC

I often create group activities and I promote a debate about them. I also create multidisciplinay projects involving several teachers from different subjects. I believe this has proven very effective to the development of students competences and they very frequently request to go deeper on the topics we work in the project. I also agree with the teacher in the video. Technology is a means to an end but at the same time the world is growingly more technologic and we must avoid a mismatch between the way we teach in the classroom and the use of technology our students do. So technology is inevitable

Francesca, Italy

francescagiala — 2016-10-27 20:48:45 UTC

I am agree with the affermation about the tecology. I think that if effectively integrated into the curriculum, technology tools can extend learning

Elisabete, Portugal

elisabete_cruz3 — 2016-10-27 20:50:35 UTC

I think that the use of phones/tablets can be very usefull during the school time. The students can use these tecnologies for group works where they need to search for information, find images, ... My students (most of them) aren't ready for that big responsability... but i'm still trying.

Gülhanım,Turkey

gul_ektem — 2016-10-27 21:07:28 UTC

I agree because when we use PBL we use collobration skill in our class. Students use tecnology, dramatisation, searching etc while they work.

Donatella, Italy

donatellacavion — 2016-10-27 21:10:11 UTC

I think that it's very important to find the time to discuss with students the different aspects of their group work. Last year I tried to do a similar activity in a CLIL Module with my fourth year class in a secondary school. The group work took place in the classroom and in the lab. At the end of the module students gave their presentations to a first year class of the same school. So I agree with the Italian teacher in the second video: tecnology is very useful in a class especially when collaboration practises are used.

Maria Tiago, Portugal

mariatiago — 2016-10-27 21:14:37 UTC

I do agree that circle time provides a time for listening, developing attention span, promoting oral communication, and learning new concepts and skills. While doing project work I also use the App – TeamUp (it form teams based on skills and interests and record teams' progress).

Elena (Czechia)

2016-10-27 21:16:47 UTC

I like the video very much. I often work like that in eTwinning projects and similar activities but I liked the complexity of the task

Elsa Pereira, PT

2016-10-27 21:21:48 UTC

Technology is an important means of communication and motivation for students . Unfortunately, in my school we are just start to implement the collaborative project-based learning.

However we have always some problems to deal with, for exemple : time to the curricula, the examinations, the internet doesn’t works, etc. Often the students prefere go to the facebook than make the maths or english research…

I think it is not just a portuguese teacher’s problem…

Dana Nistor / Romania

danadanistor — 2016-10-27 23:21:12 UTC

Technology in the classroom enables the use of more interactive educational tools, which allows for a dynamic learning experience that directly benefits students.

Source: Boundless. “Advantages of Using Technology in the Classroom.” Boundless Education. Boundless, 26 May. 2016. Retrieved 27 Oct. 2016 from https://www.boundless.com/education/textbooks/boundless-education-textbook/technology-in-the-classroom-6/edtech-25/advantages-of-using-technology-in-the-classroom-77-13007/

Ana Pinheiro/Portugal

air_pinheiro — 2016-10-28 00:08:23 UTC

The use of technology is certainly useful particularly in more active methodologies. Young people today are more motivated to use web tools, including tools to innovate. Based learning project does not result in all students, at least in the experience I have. But when results students develop many skills. The teacher plays a key role in guiding and motivating students.

Valentina, Bulgaria

valia_tr — 2016-10-28 04:27:14 UTC

Great work! We have group discussions and work, too.

Giovanna Wiplinger Croce

giovywip — 2016-10-28 05:02:59 UTC

I wish we had pc for each group...the use of technology in our school must be implemented

Marilena, Greece

becsa1 — 2016-10-28 05:17:07 UTC

I agree that technology can become very useful in class, because most kids today use it in their everyday life, so it can attract their interest in a subject and keep them engaged. Unfortunately, we don't have the scope of the technological tools shown in the video.

Regarding the circle time exercise, I have asked questions after a group project, about how they worked together and the answer was always, that 1-2 students actually did all the work and the rest didn’t contribute anything. I can’t say that I found the solution to that problem, apart from evaluating each student individually.

Amélie Silvert

silverteacher — 2016-10-28 07:03:11 UTC

In language teaching, there is no doubt that technology is a major asset that allows people not only to collaborate but also to interact. The Italian teacher in the video has achieved a lot by combining different learning style activities which culminate in an online meeting. Looks engaging. As for the debriefing part, reflecting on what you have learnt is always useful and gives the teacher an insight on what could be improved. A practice similar to exit tickets that can help save time.

Eleftheria

2016-10-28 07:38:46 UTC

I strongly agree that using technology in class is essential to teaching because is something kids like and use everyday.I have done a similar project but all the search on the internet was done in the computer lab with the help of the Informatics teacher.

Vanesa, Croatia

2016-10-28 07:50:53 UTC

This is a really great idea. Technology certainly makes a huge difference in a learning process.

António Mansilha, Portugal

antoniomansilha — 2016-10-28 08:07:16 UTC

I have already participated in similar projects to those shown in the video, but the work was very focused on the product and missed part of assessment of how took place, and recognize that it is very important. As for technology, always considered very important because it is a motivating factor enhancer and learning for students. However, it requires a domain of the same by students and teachers, otherwise can be an inhibiting factor.

Maria, Italia

mariagranatiero — 2016-10-28 08:34:06 UTC

Sure, I agree fully. It understands only after putting into practice the knowledge. knowledge is understood if put into practice.

Kateryna Kramnychna, Ukraine

rocksy_12 — 2016-10-28 08:35:59 UTC

I totally agree that such a group work is the real solution for the future and nowadays learning.

Francisco Pinto, PT

franciscopinto — 2016-10-28 09:18:17 UTC

I totally agree, the technology is very useful for any collaborative work. Normally, when I do this kind of work at the end of class are always analyzed the positive and negative aspects of that work so that they can improve on the next tasks.

Piia, Estonia

2016-10-28 10:41:20 UTC

The use of technology brings the learning essential on the new level. As shown in the video - tp practice English in real time with a Class from Ireland, to "build" a time machine that allows hands-on methods to use in order to gain new knowledge.

Svetlana, Estonia

2016-10-28 11:09:03 UTC

PBL is very effective in developing of collaborative skills. Thanks to PBL and technology students know much more about the world than in school curriculum. Technolgy gives possibility to take part in online-projects with students from other countries, to know more about other culture and traditions.

Evangelia, Greece

Evangelia_Chasapi — 2016-10-28 11:41:45 UTC

In my opinion, discussing with my students what we have learnt and what went wrong in a collaborative activity in order to fix it in the next activities is of vital importance. Using of technology in collaborative practices helps students become more effective, more communicative and more motivated as well.

Erato, Gree

2016-10-28 11:58:37 UTC

I totally agree to the fact that technology is essential when it comes to collaborative practices. Technology can give a boost to learning.

Leena, Finland

leena_liimatain — 2016-10-28 12:00:43 UTC

I'm shifting my classes towards task based learning units where applicable, and any hints for effective self and group evaluation are welcome!

Manuela Ortigão, Portugal

mortigao — 2016-10-28 12:25:30 UTC

yes. I made similar experiences with my students in eTwinning projects, Go-Lab project and Inspire Science education project.

Asun Ara, Spain

2016-10-28 13:08:30 UTC

The ‘circle time’, where the teacher explicitly discusses with students how the group work went, what were the positive and negative aspects and what could be solutions for the future, is an effective way of assessment of the project when following a collaborative learning method. All members should feel responsible of the final evaluation of themselves individually and of the group as one unique unity. Even it is an effecive method to evaluate the tasks proposed by the teacher and the teacher's role.

Technology becomes very useful in a class when we want our students to learn in a collaborative way due to two things: 1) it facilitates the teacher's roles of possessing the information and of controlling their learning as well as their security, and 2) the evaluation is more objective since it is easier to record their learning and progress, and the students are aware of their improvement.

Astrid Hulsebosch

AstridVE — 2016-10-28 13:35:56 UTC

I have experience with circle time but I never experienced the circle time at the end of an activity. I 'm convinced this is a GREAT IDEA! Thanks Francesca Panzica I will introduce this new way!

Suzana Santos - Portugal

arlindopereira3 — 2016-10-28 13:45:44 UTC

I use technology in my classes often, because I think it can be a very useful tool to make the learning of diferent subjects more interesting and dynamic. This use of technology encourages the collaboration work and children motivation.

Kasia, Poland

mscatez — 2016-10-28 14:12:30 UTC

We use this method in our eTwinning projects. The students must have a opportunity to analyse their own work.

Višnja, Croatia

mvisnja — 2016-10-28 14:42:31 UTC

My students really like to work on a computer and are willing to always work in pairs. This makes them very happy, but it is possible only when we have free computer room. These working conditions as in the video we will not have more in the near future. Of course, that modern technology helps a lot in the work. Without technology teacher has to be a lot more creative in preparing the materials for collaborative learning.

Dora Dellaporta, Greece

2016-10-28 14:45:14 UTC

The "circle time" is an essential part of collaborative learning in terms of metacognitive skills and re flexion. The students realize the way they have worked, the positive and negative aspects and improve themselves.
Technology is necessary nowadays provided that the teacher is able to guide his/her students and doesnt let them get lost among the internet paths.

Clara - Portugal

2016-10-28 14:49:25 UTC

I work in a group with students but not as described in the video. I think technology is important to motivate all students to participate in the work to develop.

António Gonçalves, PT

ana_vaz — 2016-10-28 15:05:55 UTC

I already realized collaborative activities with my students using technologies within and outside the classroom. (Creative Classroom Lab)

Ana Schade, PT

2016-10-28 15:10:42 UTC

Although I never used the time circle in my classes, I agree it's a good way to the hear of the students opinion, and I never use any teconologies in my classroom.

Antónia Brandão PT

dolores_brandao — 2016-10-28 15:43:04 UTC

I carried out sometimes similar exercises to the ‘circle time’ described in the video, We discussed how the group work went, what were the positive and negative aspects and what could be solutions for the future.

As result of that debate most of the times it had improved students’ collaboration skills and when we work again in group we can see improvements. However not all is good. Some students don’t engage themselves and they desagree in some issues…and the improvements can’t bee seen. It takes time and lots of patience.

Technology is useful in class especially when collaborative practices are adopted but tis not enought, we must add pedagogical knowledge and flexible classrooms

Margarida Sousa PT

2016-10-28 16:03:10 UTC

we work in group but without this technological support. This could improve our work of course, making it easier and funnier, too.
This team work presented in the video can prevent indiscipline, too. All the students wuld be much more interested!

Nana Paliashvili: I work in a group with students but not as described in the video. I think technology is important to motivate all students to participate in the work to develop.yes. I made similar experiences with my students in eTwinning projects, I do education project in chemistry, natural science. Last year we did the project :" environmental pollution-danjer for the world" , Where we have used computers, tablets and smartphones. During the project we have been work in the small groups, which is why my students have the experience of collaboration.

2016-10-28 16:05:47 UTC

Sandra Lourenço,

2016-10-28 16:35:32 UTC

Technology is, no doubt, very useful when we try to implement collaborative learning in classroom, but the lack of it can´t be seen as an excuse to not doing so.

Innovative methods of teaching are necessary, otherwise we can have all the technology available and still teach in the old-fashioned, traditional way.

Isabel, SP

2016-10-28 16:55:22 UTC

We use SWOT Analysis before we start a project. I ask them reflect on things they would change and keep for the next year, but not at the end of lessons. That is a good idea. Circle time is great to train future teachers! ICT is great so students do not have to meet at all times. Also, it lets each of them comment and edit what the others do.

Paula Ornelas

pmogmar — 2016-10-28 17:39:25 UTC

Technology becomes very useful in class especially with younger students...their motivation rises sky high. It seems to me that this kind of group activity results better if students begin by exploring their real selves first...and that can be done with paper and pencil...

Michele, Italy

michele_blandino — 2016-10-28 19:11:59 UTC

I agree with all the things the teacher in the video said about collaborative practices combined with technology. I think that it is worth to try.

Hanefi ZOBAR, Turkey

hzobar — 2016-10-28 19:28:32 UTC

I totally agree with the teacher. Technology is very useful in the classroom if you can use at right time, in right place. But it becomes disaster if you dont have enought euipments. I have never tried this, but thinking to try soon.

Dana Moraru, Romania

2016-10-28 19:35:08 UTC

Such a pretty idea and so properly for this students' age

it is based on a project that facilitate learning

2016-10-28 19:48:41 UTC

Martha Karvounidou, Greece

2016-10-28 19:55:49 UTC

Nice example.

Lina Mosca Ital

2016-10-28 20:11:50 UTC

BPL is a good example for collaborative working, students learn to collaborate and amusing in the same time.

Technology is very important to motivate them because we can use the same language "],�)�a��

Soner Cihanker, Turkey

2016-10-28 20:27:30 UTC

If technology is being used in every area of our lives, why not use it in the classroom. Technological tools students like to use, and leaves a lot of research, learn the subject better. Technology also facilitates collaboration. Thus, beyond the borders of the student is happening.

Heidi, Germany

2016-10-28 21:07:11 UTC

When there is a collaborative work the students reflect about their work. What was good, what could I change next time. They learn to give feedback to their classmates in a constructive way and reflect their own learning also. I think this is an important part of collaborative
working.
ICT for use of collaborative activities helps alot. We do projects with eTwinning, and as these projects are done with students of other European countries ICT tools as meetingwords.com or google drive make it possible to work together even if we are in two or more different countries.

Susana Neves, Portugal

shesuhed — 2016-10-28 21:32:11 UTC

I often carry out exercises as described in this video. Regularly, I take students to reflect together on how is ongoing work and ask themselves about what they should and can do better. I have noticed that gradually the students will involve more in the discussions and the conclusions resulting from these have contributed to improve their performance and their way of being in class. Constructive criticism and spirit of mutual help, trust in each other and group cohesion have been strengthened with the development of these exercises. I’ m sure that the technology can be very useful in class, especially when we develop collaborative practices, but not just my school is deficient in this area, I also feel I need more training to use the technology properly. However, I have been making progresses.I do not want to be limited because I am aware that, as is said in the video, technology encourages collaboration, motivation, attention and interest of the students, while it may suit the different existing learning styles.

Mina/Italy

ponzianomina — 2016-10-28 22:10:34 UTC

I carry out similar exercises to the "circle time" when we discuss how the group work went and I try to capture the positive and negative aspect of the activity but above all to understand if the students' collaboration worked . This kind of "evaluation" of an activity looks like very useful to know about the learning process, too. I really agree about the statement the technology is useful in class even if I think not only for the collaboarative practises

Susana Varela, Portugal

7suslucas — 2016-10-28 22:24:43 UTC

Even before using the learning based on projects (Project Based Learning) I always provided my students moments of reflection/debate about the work group developed/realized in the classroom.
Actually, and after having attended the first PBL, I can say moments like this are the ones that promote the collaborative and the communicative skills and develop the critical thinking.

Paula/Portugal

2016-10-28 23:01:06 UTC

Project Based Learnig is, in my opinion, the most powerful learning method. It allows students gain knowledge but at same time develop some important skills by working during a period of time to investigate in order to construct a product that belongs to all

Maria Isabel Pinto, Portugal

2016-10-28 23:09:41 UTC

In my classroom usually develop small projects suggested in the case of Environmental Studies discipline, or other interest of the students. There is a registration grid in the room, where students write their name and put the problem / question for which want FIND response. If there are more students interested in this project are part of (maximum 4 students).
Then it is completed a project plan where students record the following: What do they know? What do you want to know? Where will search? And how they want to present their projects (poster, PowerPoint, book ...) Make up a date for the start of the project and another to complete. These projects are carried out with teacher guidance in the search and selection of information. Completed the project is presented to the class, usually accompanied by hetero and self-assessment.
We also carry out projects related to the field of mathematics, where it is given a challenge to groups and will have to FIND different strategies to present to colleagues.
Collaborative work is an asset in learning develops communication, socialization and motivates students, it's just a pity that we do not have more time to carry out activities of this kind, because we have a huge curriculum to meet.

Canan Han/TURKEY

han06canan — 2016-10-28 23:36:38 UTC

I totally agree with the teacher about technology. Its not only necessary in national borders but also special emphasize in international collaboration like e twinning projects. Students are able to collaborate overseas by use of web tools such as skype , adobe connect or padlets ( like this) ☺️

Sharon - Australia

2016-10-28 23:52:56 UTC

Absolutely - with our students being digital natives their world is already based on the virtual environment which is immediate and collaborative in a sense.

Anne, Colombia

hillesheim_anne — 2016-10-29 00:00:12 UTC

In my opinion it is very important to always reflect on the activities, learning methods, materials, etc in class. ItÄs the best way for the students and the teacher to learn and improve. In collaborative learning a "circle time" is especially useful as students become aware of advantages and disadvantages of this learning method.

Projects are useful. Yes, I usually discuss how all works went. I agree, because the students need other ways of learning, otherwise they get sometimes bored.

2016-10-29 03:34:45 UTC

Diana - Colombia

Olga Keramida-Greece

2016-10-29 03:38:05 UTC

Technology excites children and makes learning enjoyable. We work in groups but does not help us the technological equipment for the kindergarten so
we ask for
the help of parents at home.

Despina Riniou, Greece

driniou — 2016-10-29 04:40:25 UTC

I've never done so. Yes, I strongly agree with the teacher about when technology becomes useful.

PBL is very interesting but every step must be learned. It's great and we will have great outcomes.

2016-10-29 07:45:20 UTC

Valeria Manfreda
Italia

Natalija Diković

2016-10-29 08:09:41 UTC

Technology is not a goal in itself. The teacher shall be capable that the implementation in the classroom, and obtain positive results in the process of acquiring knowledge and skills

Stefania, Italy

lastefi07 — 2016-10-29 09:15:24 UTC

I generally use the circle time at the end of a teaching unit even though it is not a collaborative practice. It is very useful for me, it gives a lot of opportunities to re-think my work. As for the use of technology in class, I agree with Francesca's words. Of course, this will change the role of the teacher but at the same time it enhances the partecipation of students. I have also appreciated the focus on how each cognitive style of our students can be play a relevant part in a collaborative project.

Ester Degennaro-Italy

esterdegennaro — 2016-10-29 09:18:53 UTC

Circle time is a very interesting activity that I used in all the classes. The use of technology is an effective and usuful mean of communication only when collaborative practices are used.

Leila Lehtmets

lehtmets_leila — 2016-10-29 09:38:44 UTC

We try to reflect every learning activity, not only collaborative learning ones and I consider it essential part of learning. Technology is very important, but my kids are 5-6 years old and at this age, it is not so relevant yet. More important is to develop communication, listening, presentation, argumentation etc skills.

Enrica Maragliano - Italy

EMGe — 2016-10-29 11:35:23 UTC

I do believe that technology must not be a goal but a tool we use to reach some learning goal.
If you use PBL approach it is easier to collect and share information, make and verify hypothesis if you have technology in your classroom and students have technology at home. If you are involved in an eTwinning project technology it is absolutely necessary also to communicate with partners.
But sometimes it is also fine ask students to use pen and paper, scissors and strings and use their psychomotor skills. Virtuality can't completely substitute reality...

Elisabetta Nepa

classedieli — 2016-10-29 11:55:35 UTC

Anch'io alla fine di ogni attività riflettiamo sul lavoro effettuato e sono convintissima come la collega che le nuove tecnologie ottimizzino i tempi, raggiungano tutti i bambini con stili di apprendimento diversi

Anna Rosa, Italy

ar_b — 2016-10-29 13:42:38 UTC

Project-based learning is known as inquiry-based learning and problem-based learning: an approach able to develop student’s competences.

Starting from questions and evolving with exploration, investigation and finding solutions, it helps students to apply new knowledge and skills.

“Then it isn’t what students know. It is how they learn”.

Technology can facilitate research, investigation and debates, then it’s a precious resource for collaborative learning. So, we have to use them with safety and vision.

Matt, Ireland

matt_curran_2015 — 2016-10-29 15:42:22 UTC

As student teacher i have not gotten the chance to have a whole class discussion on the effectiveness of group work. However in order for this to be beneficial I feel students would need to be working in groups consistently for a sustained period of time...this doesn't often happen in a science class room. In terms of the benefits of technology, I think technology can add a great deal to a class when used effectively. Its important that its only used when it is truly beneficial as opposed to being used just to tick a box. I liked the idea of providing students with suggested websites to browse. This can not only protect students but also ensure they are learning from reputable sources/

Andrea Z., Switzerland

ziateacher — 2016-10-29 15:57:39 UTC

re circle time: I have asked for students' feedback in online surveys (anonymous), or just briefly discussed what they thought was positive or negative. It did not come as a surprise that lazier classes usually prefer teacher-led activities to PBL, because they honestly admit that their own research and investigation is too strenuous and tiring and prefer having the stuff presented by the teacher. So everything hinges on the degree of ambition and attitude in a class.
re neg. aspects: In my eTwinning projects my students complained about others not meeting deadlines/not responding as a negative aspect of collaboration.
re technology: I LOVE integrating modern technology in my teaching and showing my students innovative approaches to learning or cooperating. I also feel it enhances motivation and is a welcome change to the course book. I am convinced it enhances collaboration (within or beyond one's own classroom) to a great extent, yet must be used meaningfully and sensibly.

Vanda Batista, Portugal

2016-10-29 16:08:33 UTC

At the end of a working group presentation, students often discuss the strengths and weaknesses detected and usually take into account the diversity of opinions of colleagues and try to overcome the difficulties encountered, which is very positive in future work.

Jole, Sicily

2016-10-29 16:48:30 UTC

At the end of each work we discuss the results obtained, on emerging critical issues and how to resolve them. I have a good answer because the boys have developed good critical skills ... there are plenty of slower elements, but, in this case, the group is a matter of fundamental importance because it manages to involve them in sharing the duties appropriate to their learning styles.

Melisa A., Italy

ambrosini_melisa — 2016-10-29 17:00:16 UTC

I have the technologies, some good digital competences, I'm studying collaborative learning with you, the goodwill and creativity are not lacking ... damn ... I need better English, and then it's done! ;-)

Michal

2016-10-29 17:08:25 UTC

As for the question concerning technology in class, I couldn't agree more. When we know how to use it effectively, than it is a great help both for students and teachers. When it comes to feedback and collaborative learning in general, the major problem is the fact that students at my school are not used to working this way. Unfortunately, It is a fact that some students prefer to listen to teachers. We have worked on several projects that lasted for a few days and the problem was when one of the team members was ill or did not work the way he/she was supposed to. But anyway, it is a challenge for us, teachers, to learn how to deal with these issues.

Anna La Montagna, Italy

2016-10-29 17:23:41 UTC

Using the flipped classroom often I reflect in the classroom with students on what they have learned and try together to satisfy their curiosity asking questions and inviting them to reflect and to look for the information correctly.
The PBL is a powerful tool to make people feel the manufacturer of its active student learning. The technology is also useful because often the students are better than us and that makes us all feel equal everyone needs to learn from the other.

Ionela Lazea, Romania

kameeliah16bis — 2016-10-29 17:27:13 UTC

Indeed, through projects children are more involved in collaboration. It is the best method to use it.

Anna Ciaramella Italy

ciaramellaanna — 2016-10-29 17:46:39 UTC

Yes I agree with the teacher when he says that the technology encourages collaboration and that becomes useful when in the class are used collaborative practices.
Today we are in a digital age and the children are fascinated by all that is technological.

Helene Stavropoulou, Greece

elenistavro7 — 2016-10-29 18:32:32 UTC

Have you ever carried out a similar exercise to the ‘circle time’ described in this video?
Yes, but the discussion was not so exhaustive : I can not spend too much time because I only have course twice a week.
Has this improved your students’ collaboration skills and have you seen evidence of this in collaborative work carried out afterwards?
Yes, to some extent, collaboration skills and confidence are established between members of groupe. Unfortunately, , the results of this work will evaporate quickly because we can not have continuity and systematization in the language course with two hours per week.
Do you agree that ‘Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used’
and why?
Yes, I do, because Technology enables students to have access to information, more easily share, develop the products of their work, to express themselves and communicate with each other, it provides collaborative tools and also allows the dissemination and evaluation of a project.

Hülya, TURKEY I usually use circle time at the end of my each chapter to make a review and to discuss the sub titles. In this way all learned parts can be examined again. I thought technologies became useful in collaborative activities. All the students can make researches and share their informations with other students at the same time.

hulyaos31 — 2016-10-29 18:42:21 UTC

Paola Mattioli/Roma

pmattioli — 2016-10-29 18:53:32 UTC

I agree with the teacher when she says that technology can help collaborative practice because is more easy sharing own work and because today students are really fascinated from technology.

Giorgia Groza, Romania

giorgiagroza — 2016-10-29 19:00:47 UTC

As usual, a perfect project, but including the most highest ict tools which most of the school doesn`t afford.

Reneta Raicheva, Bulgaria

2016-10-29 19:36:37 UTC

How to read in English via 3D glasses of Google Cardboard? We tried to learn English words using modern technology - interactively, funny, successfully. Enjoy! :)

Anick Druart, Belgium

anickdruart — 2016-10-29 20:15:31 UTC

After ethical projects with the whole school, we use a similar exercise. I have small classes for my Moral courses and we are always satisfied with the results.

I agree with the teacher. The student are more motivated to search information and use technology in group. One technical problem at home and it's panic.

Antonia, the Netherlands

chanja — 2016-10-29 20:32:15 UTC

Yes, I have done a similar exercise described as 'circle time' in the video. However, since project-based learning is a new concept in my lessons I have not done many projects and cannot say that I have found evidence of changes in the students' collaboration skills. A great part of the collaboration takes place outside school as we lack ICT resources.

Veronica, Italy

2016-10-29 20:54:46 UTC

Last year my class worked on an eTwinning project which introduced them to the idea of working in cross-country groups. At the moment, the same class is engaged in TBL on the Victorian Age and they are using technology to share and update the results of their research. So far, so good as they have said that they enjoy working in this way which increased the enjoyment factor.

Silvia Pozzo Balbi, Italy

pozzobalbi_silvia — 2016-10-29 21:20:22 UTC

I recently ended a group work (a very simple activity at the beginning of the year, where the students had to help each other to revise what they remembered from the past school year, writing down and acting out a dialogue in German, following some "rules" I had given them) with a set of questions about their experience of group work. I had noticed that most of them had worked in a real CoLab spirit, but some students were unhappy: I hope the whole class discussion which has followed has helped them to understand what and why something had gone wrong. As for the usefulness of technology in CoLab learning I totally agree, although I see it as a very motivating means, not as the core of CoLab.

Despoina Amarantidou, Greece

damarant — 2016-10-29 21:35:22 UTC

I have been working on e-Twinning projects for about two years and my students enjoy the idea of collaboration and exchange of information. We also created a Webqest which is a sample work of PBL.

Kamilla/Poland

adllerchen — 2016-10-29 23:06:46 UTC

This video is very interesting. PBL is very effective, but difficult to implement in the Polish school / polish education. We like eTwinning and cooperation with other schools.

IvonaD , Romania

2016-10-29 23:11:09 UTC

For me, collaborative learning is a powerful and useful but hard to implement way of working. The benefits that I see in collaborative learning are: building confidence, learning from others, students involvement, developing empathy, creativity, the feeling of being part of a team, simulating real life situations. But preparing and implementing collaborative activities it takes time, patience, and it sometimes can break the classroom management. It requires experience, or a lot of resilience for learning from mistakes without losing hope:)
I believe that in a collaborative learning activity the closing discussion is essential, in order to help children to become aware about the advantages of collaboration and about the good results that they can obtain through collaboration.

Cátia Santos

2016-10-30 00:58:23 UTC

PORTUGAL
I Agree with the use of technology in this and other types of projects, due to the evolution of time and as more and more will all be controlled by computer, it is important that students have a good command in this matter.
On activities to collaboration, I have some working (though without technology), where students, for example, studied in the different nutrient groups and they presented to colleagues and then based on a healthy diet and in learning confectionar school healthier and tasty sandwich (contest). No doubt that this kind of activity enhances key competences to students, more autonomous, collaborative, better communication, more effective learning.

Sue - AUS

suzanne_durick — 2016-10-30 02:47:18 UTC

I have often employed group work in the classroom. At times the groups work very well, other times there are the 'real life' obstacles such as students which do not participate and complete their part of the assigned work. There are always individual differences between students which can impact the success of group work. Sometimes positively, other times negatively. Over all, even the group memebers which do not work well together have learned a fundamental life skill which is that there are always those in life who do more than others, who strive for success more than others etc.
Technology is important, this is the main research tool available for students and also allows them programs to collaborate on together. The learning is purposeful and real (due to negotiating students personalities, capabilities and effort levels)

Jose Teixeira, PT

2016-10-30 08:37:19 UTC

I totally agree, technology is very useful for collaborative work. PBL is very effective, however is difficult to implement in Portuguese schools.

Fatih TOY

mrtoy — 2016-10-30 08:39:53 UTC

I have never carried out a similar exercise like "circle time". Last year, I used Padlet in a group work to write and talk about daily routines. Students were divided into 5 groups of 4 individuals. They were at the 5th grade and they got introduced with Daily Routines in English. Each group individual was supposed to write about his or her daily routines for two weeks and the other group members were supposed to give feedback about the written structure etc. They were also supposed to add photos for their daily routines.It wasn't a project but my students used technology to collaborate. The use of technology has provided me with the opportunity of time saving and creating awareness among students.

David Doherty, County Donegal Ireland

daviddoherty — 2016-10-30 10:25:08 UTC

Module 1:
I need to create a personal Learning Diary to log learning activities, reflections and resources from the course.

I need to reflect in my Diary on two learning activities and whether they require a low or high level of collaboration from students.

Learning Activity number 1: Low collaboration

Lesson 1 on Ecology :
Time allowed: 200 mins (5 x 40min classes) (class 1)
learning Intentions: Define and give examples of the following as applied to terrestrial (land) and aquatic (water) environments: Abiotic, Biotic, Climatic and Edaphic factor. Name the sun as the primary source of energy. Name the sun as the primary source of energy. Name feeding as the pathway of energy flow. Present a grazing food chain. Present a food web. Construct a pyramid of numbers and explain its use.
Teaching Methodologies employed: The start of this lesson requires low levels of collaboration with students using placemat and textbook to work in pairs researching and writing the various definitions and then changing the wording to demonstrate their understanding.

Learning Activity number 1: High collaboration

Lesson 1 on Ecology :
Time allowed: 200 mins (5 x 40min classes) (Class 2)
learning Intentions: Define and give examples of the following as applied to terrestrial (land) and aquatic (water) environments: Abiotic, Biotic, Climatic and Edaphic factor. Name the sun as the primary source of energy. Name the sun as the primary source of energy. Name feeding as the pathway of energy flow. Present a grazing food chain. Present a food web. Construct a pyramid of numbers and explain its use.
Teaching Methodologies employed: The second and subsequent part of this lesson requires high levels of collaboration with students using Jig saw to build their understanding of energy flow pathways and then layering their knowledge until they have the skills to move onto studying the dynamics of a habitat.

Daniel Caridade, Portugal

dcaridade — 2016-10-30 11:19:00 UTC

I've used frequently project based learning, since my classes (arts) allow me to develop those projects quite easily. What I've noticed is that students aren't used to discuss their findings and becoming less self aware of their achievments and shortcomings, since our educational system is mainly focused on the teacher and the lenghthy curriculums as the centre of the educational process, which tends to put the students as spectators in their own educational development, with less time to interact with each other. As for technology, I think it's mainly a plus in the classroom, and nowadays almost an extention of our students. Embracing technology, in my opinion, is a way to bring them closer to the learning process.

Maria José, Portugal

epacsb_mjsousa — 2016-10-30 12:11:06 UTC

I fully agree with the project-based learning and make use whenever I can. It is not always easy because the lack of availability of technological and material resources to research. I consider that the very technologies faciltam 'cause this methodology allow the autonomy of students.

Diana Gheorghe

2016-10-30 13:32:22 UTC

I agree technology and used in eTwinning project or in teaching the lessons. Collaboration between students is easy but what do you do when students young age? Kinda hard to use technology.

Sophia Kouzouli, Greece

sophiakouz — 2016-10-30 13:33:14 UTC

I very often involve my students in collaborative projects. I have always dedicated some time for m students and me to reflect and discuss the positive and negative aspects of our work in the projects. I strongly believe that this has developed their reflective and social skills

Natália Ferreira, Portugal

2016-10-30 13:54:36 UTC

I involve my students in collaborative project work. Not as often as I wish because of the available time management, given the grid extension of the curriculum. However, when I do, I use the ABRP methodology (Based Learning in Problem Solving). This methodology is based on the principle of using everyday problems as a starting point for learning. At the end always makes up the self assessment and peer review of their work. I believe this is the way to prepare my students for the challenges of the future.

Vitalija, Lithuania

2016-10-30 13:54:52 UTC

I often use project based learning in my lessons. Sometimes the tasks are more difficult, sometimes easier; it depends on the students' age and knowledge. At the end we always use this activity 'circle time', but we call it reflection and do it at the end of every lesson. We discuss what we have learnt, how successfully the group worked, what were positive and negative aspects of collaborative work. This reflection motivates students and helps them concentrate on other future activities. As for technologies, they are very useful and effective in collaborative activities, but we lack them.

Ljiljana Lez-Drnjevic, Croatia

LjiljanaLD — 2016-10-30 14:57:33 UTC

I often involve my students in collaborative project work but not as often as I would like to. We discuss the work after it, analyze the process etc. It's useful because we learn from it. I teach literature and the results are often very interesting. We use technology and web.2 tools. My students like to investigate and to create

Marlis Schedler, Austria Didactical good prepared or choosed technologie is usefull in class always, not only in collaboritive sessions. It may be a start working alone and the difficulter way is to work together.

2016-10-30 15:16:09 UTC

Chiara Stella ALbanello

chiarastella_albanello — 2016-10-30 15:37:17 UTC

The teacher is fortunate to have the appropriate technology. I believe it is essential to implement this type of project. The teachers who manage the learning-teaching with a different setting, in Italy, are the smallest part. I approve of the teaching style because it meets the different needs of our students (multiple intelligences Gadner).

Sabrina Petrillo, ITALY

2016-10-30 15:39:14 UTC

As I wrote in the previous section there are some strategies more useful for me to try to improve student-student collaboration. I've sometimes applied 'circle time' techniques (i.e. a discussion among me and my students about the way to improve the group work). Even though the interactions, to a large extent, are conditioned by the methodology being adopted, I think that technology may be useful for fostering a valid PBL approach only through teamwork.

José, Portugal

2016-10-30 16:48:41 UTC

the project-based learning is the real learning methodology; which leads to true knowledge and to development of essential life skills.

Paulo Cavaco, Portugal

cavacopaulo — 2016-10-30 16:58:49 UTC

As a Mother Tongue teacher, I usually carry out project-based learning in my classroom. Pupils have to produce together a text were they express their point of view about the issue. Theu choose a team leader who coordinates the work of the group. They make a brainstorming to identify the possible arguments they can use, then they select the ones they really want to use. After that task, they begin to write their text. During the work in progress, I talk with each group and we discuss their arguments and the way they want to express them. At the end, we make the evaluation of the project: the pupils identify which were the positive aspects of this project and which were the negative ones. I myself express my point of view about the project. I agree that technology is useful in collaborative learning. It is easier to work with the support of technological tools. But we can improve collaborative learning without technology.

Francesca, Italy

francescapulvirenti1 — 2016-10-30 17:01:54 UTC

Very interesting video! I have tried similar works. I used the group work giving each group a peculiar topic, the questions and the link where they could find the information they need to answer or to organize their work. I have mostly used this way of working in groups for e-twinning projects, so their work was shared with other European students.

Isabel Rato, Portugal

2016-10-30 17:19:40 UTC

This video is very interesting. I think it is important to discuss the work after it and analyse the process to learn from it. I think it will improve the students skills as well as futur collaborative work. I see that tecnology is useful for collaborative work, because it improves motivation, attention, interest and it provides different cognitive styles.

Angela, Italy

a_sanpietro — 2016-10-30 17:31:29 UTC

I never used the "circle time" in an organized way, although discussions on the work took place, but i think that it is very interesting.
Technology helps a lot and makes possible to transform simple works in rich, interesting and fun activities .

Sónia Castanheira, Portugal

sonia_castanheira — 2016-10-30 18:48:03 UTC

I agree that a project based learning potentiates a Collaborative Learning. Sadly, my current school does not have available the technologies presented in the e-learning video.

Katarina,Serbia

2016-10-30 18:58:53 UTC

This is very good example.I strongly agree that using technology in the class is essential to teaching,because it is something that kids like and use everyday.For inclusive education it is opportunity for children with disabilities to be part of the class and chance to work with others.

Angeliki Kougiourouki

akougiou — 2016-10-30 19:05:06 UTC

I often carry out projects in my classrooms during which pupils have to work in groups and achieve common goals. We use technology to support our work, either computers and tablets. Pupils do like to work in groups. We discuss also the positive and negative results of the group work. Pupils are very serious when discussing the pros and cons of their group work and they try to avoid the negative ones in their next project.

Ana Caridade, Portugal

accontosdaterra — 2016-10-30 19:43:45 UTC

This collaborative learning through projects consider to be very rich because it motivates students and leads them to acquire skills in various fields not only in this case, the discipline of English.
The use of new technologies facilitates learning and stimulates motivation.

google translation

Katarzyna Kwiatek-Grabarska, Poland

2016-10-30 20:07:41 UTC

That's what I like the most! Projects! When we do projects we are in small groups, we can use IT classroom, whe can collaborate effectively. Unfortunately, it is possible only during adding lessons... In my oppinion the big problem is that I have only 1 hour geography lesson per week in each class - aproximately 20 students, so 45 minutes for so many activities is impossible...

Annamaria/Ital

anidigre1 — 2016-10-30 20:19:47 UTC

So apart from the furniture the real setting is what you are able to build through the technology that you have to disposition; also the interactive board it's a really hub in fact it allow everyone to be costuctive and colaborative, and the teacher has planning the lesson in a great way, good done

Richard - Netherlands

r_hulsebos1 — 2016-10-30 20:23:17 UTC

I always discuss with students how the group work went. It is a very important part of the process.

I totally agree that technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used. Technology enriches collaborative learning. There are so many new opportunities through the use of technology. Making presentations, videos, animations or a lecture.

Ioana, Romania

Ioanan — 2016-10-30 20:26:02 UTC

I like the video presented as an example. I have not conducted a similar exercise.
The use of new technologies stimulates pupils ' motivation for learning, facilitate collaboration.

Ivana, Slovakia

luptacikova_ivana — 2016-10-30 20:42:53 UTC

I try to use group work as often as I can and sometimes I did the "circle time" - I asked students for their expressions - what works well and why, what works bad and why, what should do better in the next time. I didn't make notes about this but I noticed during the school year that students' collaboration was increased.
What about technology I agree with teacher state because students can see meaningful application for work and students can work outside of class using technology.

Lúcia, Portugal

lucia_paulino — 2016-10-30 20:53:06 UTC

I believe “circle time” would be very interesting to implement, so that students become more aware of what they can do to improve. Sometimes we, teachers, skip this moment because we are running against time to comply with the planning.

I have done this with secondary school students and self as well as peer assessment are important to realize what aspects went wrong and need improvement but also to show them want was done well and should be maintained.

As for the use of technology, it is very useful in a project-based learning. Students search for information, select it and organize it in a collaborative way, each member of the group giving opinions and ideas.

Cinzia, Italy

cinzia_spogli — 2016-10-30 21:39:32 UTC

I'll try to use collaborative working every time I can. But, I have to admit, only lately I take time to let students discuss about the work they just did. I think that circle-time could be a good habit at the end of each work.
I agree with the state of the teacher, because technology make possible and easier the construction of the final product of the work. However it's not indispensable, but really useful.

Arminda Pereira, Portugal

armindapereira1 — 2016-10-30 22:28:53 UTC

Project-based learning, is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real-world problems and challenges, simultaneously developing cross-curriculum skills while working in small collaborative groups.
It is important to Establish ground rules for participation and contributions.
It is very important to ask for feedback from students and include some of their ideas to improve the working group.
Project learning is also an effective way to integrate technology into the curriculum. A typical project can easily accommodate computers and the Internet, as well as interactive whiteboards, global-positioning-system (GPS) devices, digital still cameras, video cameras, and associated editing equipment.

Georgina, Ireland

2016-10-30 22:39:50 UTC

I try to incorporate feedback into my lessons. However, I feel that getting online individual feedback from my students works best for me as they tend to be more honest about what worked and didn't work for them. Assigning roles for the students as shown works well as it allows all students to shine in different ways. Technology is a must for collaborative learning in my opinion!

Dalibor Todorovic, Serbia

dalitodo — 2016-10-30 23:03:04 UTC

I have done many similar activities within different projects, especially within etwinning projects. I think that etwinninig is the most powerful weapon for developing all key competencies, both of students as well as of teachers through collaboration including project based and inquiry based learning and exchanging examples of good practices. I had wonderful collaboration in all project stages including several videoconferencing where our students had the opportunity to meet each other and talk. It is always a wonderful experience for them.

Nazaré Firmino, Portugal

nazare_firmino — 2016-10-30 23:22:23 UTC

I always ask for feedback from my students when they work in group and discuss with them the aspects they must improve. I think technology is a very useful tool in project-based learning. I intend to carry out more often project-based learning in my classes.

Teresa Rowett - Portugal

teresarowett — 2016-10-31 00:06:40 UTC

Activities such as “circle-time” are quite useful and in my opinion a great way to motivate the students. After every activity, we should have some feed-back and this is a great opportunity to do it. Also, it allows students to exchange points of view and become aware of their own weaknesses. However, it takes time and time is something we seldom can afford to spend. The curricula are long and not flexible. If we don’t comply to it we have to justify the reason why and find strategies to solve that situation. So that is why for most teachers it’s certainly simpler to just follow the traditional class plans.

As for the use of technology, that is without any doubt the way to go. The problem is that one cannot always rely on such a simple thing as Internet access… Sometimes all is prepared to follow a certain plan and at the last minute that one thing fails… But provided everything goes as planned, the teacher role is much more useful to students when they are working in groups, discussing among themselves and finding their own answers to the problems while the teacher can circle around and clear some doubts or help those who have more difficulty in finding their way. fLb��=

Katie Seamon - Morocco

Katie_Seamon — 2016-10-31 01:22:44 UTC

Occasionally I ask for students to do a self-evaluation and/or a group/peer evaluation or asked for students to give me feedback on the activity. I think that when students know they're to give some sort of feedback they're more apt to be engaged and motivated. Technology definitely can make collaborative work easier and more fun!

Sandra Teixeira, Portugal

2016-10-31 01:27:12 UTC

Obviously I agree with the teacher on the video. I use ICT in my classroom all the time, specially some educative apps and sensors (because of my investigations about the experimental teach in Sciences). But I dont have an interactive board, or computers for groups... so, I have to use my personal computer, tablet and smartphone to do that. Anyway, at the end of pratical activities, I do similar exercises to evaluate the motivation level as well as the students outcomes. This evaluation can be written, or a recorded debate (this way I can take notes for my investigations, to evaluate the scientific literacy development).

Letizia, Italy

2016-10-31 04:42:53 UTC

I've carried out moments of reflection with the sts about their group work, if it was useful, challenging and stimulating, but not in a strutured way that I am sure would definitely improve the sts' awareness and consequently their collaborative work. I totally agree that technology plays an important role with the innumerable tools that help me motivate my sts and increases the levels of collaboration.

Ana Maria Bostan, Romania

bannyem — 2016-10-31 08:14:47 UTC

Projects are fun, are a way to analyze our students behaviour among themselves; whether they accept new ideas, they fight for what they think and implement. It is a method to help them interact and socialize on a given topic.

Carmen C - Marche, Italy

carmencarella — 2016-10-31 09:10:05 UTC

I have noticed that, given a traditional classroom, with traditional student desks and chairs, by displacing the students (aged 11-13) into a Circle for a simple game in the English language, even the naughtiest tend to be quieter, because they don't have their desk in front of them, and it's like being "naked" so they are compelled to participate in a positive way, and be collaborative.

Italy

2016-10-31 09:47:50 UTC

It is very interesting

Ana Cristina Ginja, Portugal

kiginja — 2016-10-31 10:13:59 UTC

Dulce Freire, Fernanda Cunha, Marco Fernandes e Vítor Silva, Portugal

2016-10-31 10:48:14 UTC

We never promote collaborative learning through project-based learning as described. We use motivators questions based on real phenomena, such as "How do we find out the composition of distant stars so never have gone there?" It is then open to discussion with moderation by the teacher. However, when we ask students to develop a particular group activity we questioning students about the course at different times of their implementation and evaluated the positive and negative aspects.

Clearly the use of technology in the classroom makes the learning process more motivating and attractive to the student. Learning it is facilitated from the moment a student enters with taste and desire into our classroom.

Chiara Sabatini/Italy

chisab72 — 2016-10-31 12:19:59 UTC

I let my sts work in groups quite often but only rarely I let them discuss on how it went. It is an aspect I have to improve.

José Ruão / PT

jruao — 2016-10-31 14:10:39 UTC

It´s very interesting de idea of circle time, but i´m not used to it. I will apply this suggestion in the future. in fact positive and negative aspects can and must be discussed.
In collaborative work some students engage themselves but others don´t.
Technology is very useful and in class i use it frequently. We must show our students that devices can be importanye tools of knowledge.

Tamar Chalakheshashvili Georgia I agree that "technology is useful in the classroom, especially in the joint practices used. This time developing research, creative, cooperation and communication skills. The project targeted training and active learning allows. .Collaborative learning through project-based learning particular way of teaching, where teachers and students jointly formulated the topic / issue, addressing the problem, which will develop a plan for processing, and participate in the solution of the overall product. Work on the project shows that both the teacher and the students in front of a completely new tasks drawn up, which is substantially different from the traditional lessons.

tamarigia — 2016-10-31 14:31:25 UTC

Ann McHugh

ann_mchugh — 2016-10-31 14:54:18 UTC

When I have done group tasks in the past, we have not had a 'debriefing' session such as circle time as mentioned in the video. I have only used self assessment with students. I think it is great idea for students to reflect on their learning as this can help reinforce the learning and motivate the student, and as the work was collaborative to begin with, it makes sense to have a communal reflection on how the students worked together, and I will be implementing something similar to circle time in future.
I agree with the statement that 'technology becomes useful in a class especially when collaborative practices are used', as students all have different strengths and weaknesses and this collaboration in this way can improve the skills of weaker students while reinforcing the skills of stronger students.

Maria Kontoula (Greece

earthsciencekro — 2016-10-31 15:50:28 UTC

Working with groups is part of my daily school routine .
We always discuss how their groups worked . We all discuss the moments that something went wrong and hear opinion of how to change them

Carla Peixoto (Portugal)

carlapx — 2016-10-31 15:59:22 UTC

Although not use group work in my classes in the future I will try.

Zsuzsanna, Hungary

zshamlin19 — 2016-10-31 16:02:43 UTC

I regularly use groupwork in my classes. We have already discussed how it went, but not in detail, like in the video. I'm sure I'll do it in the future.

Venceslau Teixeira

venceslauteixeira — 2016-10-31 16:06:49 UTC

Vila Nova de Cerveira - Portugal
I fully agree with the teacher, it is very important to implement a time called "circle time" as it allows students to discuss between the different working group about the products produced in their small group. One of the positive aspects that can present is that within the same group some ideas do not move on, but after a discussion among the group, or large group, some of the ideas become accepted by groups that initially did not agree. This happens sometimes, as with other students involved are also other arguments and rationale for the proposed theme. Regarding the use of technology, consider to be one of the essential elements to foster and implement a teaching-learning process more consistent, on the other hand, in a world but global and technologically developed, the teaching process can not escape realiadade the contrary, real life must join and so captivate our students, aiming to introduce deeper learning and shared possible. Finally, these days, society does not value the knowledge alone, but is increasingly giving relief the powers of the twenty-first century, such as sharing, collaboration, creativity, etc. Thus, the technology can function as an enhancer element in the success of teaching in general and in particular students.
Google translation

Garbiñe Marticorena, Spain

gmarticorena — 2016-10-31 16:10:14 UTC

I have used similar activities when doing some group projects, such as etwinning projects. Instead of doing “the circle time” I asked my students to write an evaluation of the work of each member of the group both as a group and also individually.

Regarding the use of technology, I agree that technology can be very useful in class since it is really motivating and helps collaboration.

Ana Elisabete Teixeira- Vila Nova de Cerveira - Portugal

anasaojoaoteixeira — 2016-10-31 16:15:57 UTC

I never promoted collaborative learning through project-based learning as shown in the video. Often toss questions when I start a program content. Then opens the discussion with my moderation.
Clearly the use of technology in the classroom makes the learning process more motivating and attractive to the student. Learning is facilitated from the moment a student enters with pleasure and desire to be in the classroom.

Google Translation

Els Teerlinck Belgium

els_teerlinck — 2016-10-31 16:26:59 UTC

This is amazing what they are doing. I still don't see how this is introduced to the children and what their tasks are. It's a bit unclear to me

Laura-Aurelia Serban. Romania

2016-10-31 16:46:55 UTC

I like this method, I think I will try to use it in our projects.

Isabel Costa - Portugal

costaisabel60 — 2016-10-31 16:54:59 UTC

I am a eTwinner since 2005 and PBL is the type of work that I am familiarize. After some (I lost the number) eTwinning projects I have to say that I have in my classroom motivated students learning skills that are going to be useful for the rest of their lives. eTwinning change my life and certainly it is changing the life of my students. But I have to say that I am still learning, and I have a feeling that I am never going to stop learning...

Vasso Lalakidou

2016-10-31 17:42:45 UTC

I totally agree, because I think that technology can play an additional role to collaborative practices but not the main role which still is the face to face teaching.

Kinga Mańkowska, Polska

k_mankowska59 — 2016-10-31 17:46:11 UTC

I have audited lessons through project – based learning in kindergarten and primary school but I have never audited exercises similar with “circle time”. I find it’s very valuable and it’s advantageous for kids as well as for teacher. I agree with opinion that “ technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used” because it makes students more involved, interested and individual. Use of technology let students develop their skills in efficient using of technology which is very important nowadays.

Jasna Šojer/Croatia

jasna_sojer — 2016-10-31 18:10:27 UTC

As I have very successful etwinning projects for years, PBL is the way we practice in all our projects involving students in different kind of activities.

Evelyne FRANCE

litenglish222 — 2016-10-31 19:13:23 UTC

I often use this type of pedagogy and I find it very engaging for my students . Even the less skilled students seem to come into their own as a result of such activities . However I have never carried out any collaborative assessment as is shown in the video . As for new technologies , they certainly can be seen as a tool to foster collaboration .

Nehir ÇABUKER

nehircabuker — 2016-10-31 19:21:03 UTC

I generally use this method for our term based project studies. Our students have specific time for finishing. They decide to which group they will be a part of, and what they will do during that project. Finally they make a final raport.

Sara Viotti, Italy

sara_viotti — 2016-10-31 21:29:51 UTC

Yes, I find
technology is a good way to carry out team works. I talk with my students about their conflicts or goals
after giving them a grid.

Maria Vasilopoulou,Greece

mbasilopoulou — 2016-10-31 21:48:28 UTC

Working in groups is something I am in favor of when my students work in a project. Discussion always follows concerning the pros and cons of their collaboration and students evaluate their performance not only at the end but throughout the project.Moreover, collaboration is more succesfully achieved with the aid of technology.What my teaching experience has shown is that students love working collaboratively with the aid of technology. They feel comfortable with it and enjoy it more .

Filipe Mira, Portugal

2016-10-31 23:44:19 UTC

I never realized a working group similar to the video. I agree with the statement because the technology is useful in any type of learning being a motivational factor for students.

Vanessa Ridolfi, Italy

vanessa_ridolfi — 2016-11-01 05:46:45 UTC

I have realized something similar with my students: they work more actively and engaged in what they are asked to produce ... most times they are better than teachers to use computers and innovative softwares, and they feel proud to teach their own teachers!

IDA, ITALY

idadinatale — 2016-11-01 07:11:08 UTC

In the past, I tried only one time. My engaged students improved their way of working in the future. Unfortunately the less interested pupils wasted this occasion. I think because the circle time was an activity in which comes to light the responsability of everyone.

Elvia, Italy

2016-11-01 09:49:40 UTC

I do believe that collaborative work improves the students' skills, in fact I use that learning and the circle time technique, even if in a quite different way. About cooperative learning:before starting the project I give pupils a lot of materials they need about the project itself ( on Edmodo and/or on Blendspace)and two grids: 1 for the group self-evaluation and the other for the teacher evaluation;then I tell them how long the project lasts and when they can work in classroom.
Every group has to choose a prototype to show to the class at the end of the project,while one tells what and how they made it. At the end of each presentation, we discuss their self-assesment grid and I give them my feedback.
About "circle time", instead, I have been using that for a long time for students' proposals or problems. We "make" the circle every three week for an half of hour. I have a box, on my desk, where children can put the things they want the class speaks during the circle time. Pupils love the circle time and if they have problems to each other, they come to me asking when it will be.

Manuela Lúcio, Portugal

f865 — 2016-11-01 10:49:59 UTC

I haver carried out similar exercises like the one described. The students were engaged to the tasks and had a meaningful learning.

Agata Kuźmiek - Poland

2016-11-01 12:28:53 UTC

I was carrying out a very similar way to that shown in the film. I believe that this technology is very useful in any kind of education and is also a great motivation for students.

A. Leen

annetteleen — 2016-11-01 15:11:45 UTC

I have carried out similar tasks although I usually evaluate individually and not as a group. Technology is useful in the classroom but requires some preparation like finding suitable websites and resources beforehand

Filipe Mira, Portugal

2016-11-01 15:29:27 UTC

I never realized a working group similar to the video. I agree with the statement because the technology is useful in any type of learning being a motivational factor for students.

Sadhbh, Ireland

sadhbh_obrien_2014 — 2016-11-01 15:38:20 UTC

I have not used collaborative learning through project based learning in my classroom as of yet, but I like the idea of each person having a role, sticking to it and then coming back to the group to piece everything together and using technology to help them. Technology can be such a benefit to students as it motivates them to do the best they can as most resources are now online.

Raul Coutinho, Montijo

2016-11-01 15:44:03 UTC

Raul Coutinho, Montijp

2016-11-01 15:44:05 UTC

Emília Silva, Portugal

emiliasilva2 — 2016-11-01 15:49:07 UTC

When I work in PBL with my students i use self evaluation and peer evaluation, using rubrics.
In the end of the project i use Plickers to evaluate my students.

lockycardona — 2016-11-01 15:52:14 UTC

I have been using PBL through out my courses and I developed a form were I checklist their strongest abilities and the ones that they need to work on, how their skills are progressing and how the leader did their job, students have written me letters of how pleased and greatful they are for having this experience and opportunity of been a leader and it's not an easy task because they usually are confronted by conflict they measure participation, conduct and responsibility within the group and they have to fill a report given to them so we can regularly monitor their activities but at the end I have seen that they developed in community leaders and they work great with others also this have been the classes that after graduation are still contacting each other's and are very united.

2016-11-01 16:03:24 UTC

Lorraine Cardona, PR wrote: I have been ...

Lúcia Pinheiro

lucia12 — 2016-11-01 16:38:07 UTC

I really appreciate to see this video and the project based learning presented. With a objective planning, I observe that the pupils are involved e are active agents about the learning. I realize that it´s a good motivation for students. This work share is stimulating.

I used the collaborative Learnign approach with my students to make an e-book on programming. My student created also an evaluation test on the topic.

2016-11-01 16:40:47 UTC

Cesare Maramici

Vaida

vbaksiene — 2016-11-01 18:00:24 UTC

I have used collaborative learning in a class through project or virtual exhibitions, film screenings and analysis. We always user self evaluation, groups evaluation and according to the given criteria requirements . Students speeks about the positive and negative aspects they collaboration skills in group.

Pedro Elias, Coimbra, Portugal

pedroelias — 2016-11-01 18:03:46 UTC

I fully agree with the displayed video. Already promoted several classes in which students had to carry out a group project. In some of these projects, the students had to work together from their home. In this situation, the technology is not only very important as it is necessary.

DEBORA

debora_defina — 2016-11-01 18:34:38 UTC

the collaborative method is really important in all school levels, especially in the primary school where pupils begin to study together and to know what collaboration means.

Ioannis Velonakis, Greece

ivelonak — 2016-11-01 18:43:50 UTC

We have carrried out similar exercises in our school, especially within Projects and Innovative School Activities. Ion my opininion, this has improved the students' collaboration skills, since most of them expalined useful ideas and wanted to participate again in similar actions. As far as the last statement of the teacher in the video, I strongly agree with her. Technology becomes a powerful learning tool instead of a more illustrative way of presentation only in the context of innovative teacher methods such as collaborative learning.

Belgin Saka, Turkey

belgins — 2016-11-01 19:07:10 UTC

We have ICT class so we have carried out similar exercises..

Stavroula Lada, Greece

pde4424 — 2016-11-01 19:15:20 UTC

Last year we had to collaborate with 3 other schools in Greece, for the project Odysseus. We had to create a presentation of another's school town. The students were divided in 4 groups and used Google slides.

Marta, Portugal

2016-11-01 19:53:00 UTC

Unfortunly i haven´t this resources in my classroom.
I've never worked the way as shown in video

using interactive whiteboard and video conference.
I think this methodology is quite interesting, as it focuses on student learning, motivating it and giving it autonomy.

Diana, Romania

dya_constantin — 2016-11-01 20:51:34 UTC

I don't have a whiteboard at schhol, and neither have I found the possibility of video conference interaction.
Anyway, I develop group projects all the time nd students are enthusiastic and excited about them.

Cristina, Pisa, Italy

2016-11-01 21:28:36 UTC

I have carried out similar projects, etwinning projects which required collaboration and works in team but I ahve never used the circle time after to check and discuss how the work in groups went.

Joana, Portugal

juanagomes — 2016-11-01 21:31:38 UTC

In my school we have a collaborative environment and some time every week for the students to work in their projects (they decide the subject matter), planning, researching and evaluating each session's work. When the work's presentation towards the class takes place, there's a evaluation like shown in the video. The evaluation also takes place during the sessions (teacher's observations).

Jaime Martins, Portugal

joncmartins — 2016-11-01 21:45:16 UTC

I have carried out similar projects, however I have never used the circle time for discussing the work inside the group. Nevertheless it is very useful for students and other peers to reflect on their work, on their learning. It will also motivate them, to learn and to work each time better the peers assessment is a surplus in PBL.

Grazyna, Poland

sp171wesola — 2016-11-01 21:46:27 UTC

We have something like first project presentation and discuss with students about positive and negative aspects of their work. The team members and other teams say what worked well and what should be improved. Sometimes they present their final work to the audience outside the school, so we draw conclusions for the future.
I totally agree to the statement about technology and collaboration. Students have access to all materials, they can add their work at school or at home, nothing is lost.... Besides students understand they can use technology for learning independently.
Below our v-c with Italy about Easter customs as a part of the project.

Cinzia Masia

attasonitabas — 2016-11-01 22:31:05 UTC

Italy
I have carried out Project Based learning activities asking my students to work in groups (cooperative learning). I have used circle time to start lessons or at the end of them to keep them quiet. I think that technology can support cooperation and collaboration a lot because students have to work together to reach a common aim.

Cettina Catalano, Italy

cettinacatalano644 — 2016-11-01 22:46:56 UTC

I have done collaborative learning activities for knowing the parallels and meridians land. Students, network with another Italian class in the same meridian, measured the length of the Earth's circumference. The students worked in small groups. Each group, an activity: who has searched the Internet, who has built the gnomon, who have done pictures, who has controlled the exact time, who has measured the length of the shadows. A fantastic experience

Laurentina Soares, Portugal

2016-11-01 23:02:07 UTC

I have done colaborative work with other schools of Danmark, Poland, France, etc but unfortunanely we don't reflect on positive and negative points.
I work several times on projects on the classroom, and the use of technology is essential.
The students likes a lot and encourage them to make their work well.

Chrysoula,Thessaloniki,Greece

2016-11-02 06:03:15 UTC

i have done collaborative learning activities for the argumentative essay in 5 grade, my class. We enjoy using Coogle Docs for writing our essays.The students works in groups,included 3 students.They worked toghether in separate computer.

Cinzia Billa, Italy

michelangelo_policarpo — 2016-11-02 10:37:33 UTC

Setting is very important, as well as pupils' number and technology.
The presence of the Interactive Multimedia Board in the classroom is very useful. My classroom is VERY DIFFERENT. I work in a narrow crowded classroom with no IMB. But this allows me to promote the use of mobiles in classroom when students work in pairs or groups of 4 (Bring Your Own Device). I do think, nevertheless, that to see and touch reality in primary school is VERY IMPORTANT: to observe a real object/plant/animal or whatever... would be a MUST.

Simona, the Czech Republic

simonabrothankova — 2016-11-02 10:58:25 UTC

No, I have never carried out the "circle time" but it seems to be an excellent idea. Why have I never thought about it?

Lorena Preite

2016-11-02 11:53:26 UTC

I've had a similar experience three years ago with the pupils in a fourth class. It was a digital storytelling path to create an animated story. We first read a short history, we have divided into sequences and then, in small groups, the students have created one or more slides for each sequence using their scanned drawings and adding the audio track recorded with my help. All together, in the end, we have assembled the slides in one file.
While they were at work, I was able to observe and dynamics within the various groups together decided after consultation, took turns in performing various tasks and demonstrated a very high level of involvement.

Great Ideas!

DenisaDascalescu — 2016-11-02 12:35:28 UTC

When students have acces to the tehnology the process takes less so is more efficient, but I think it's usefull sometimes to try it without it.

Atanasija, Croatia

atbilic — 2016-11-02 13:56:21 UTC

I have made something similar to the "circle time". Each member of the group shared her/his views of collaborations within the group and their views of improvements.
Technology is useful in collaborative learning because today's children are surrounded with digital technology and the are familiar with it. It can further motivate children for learning.

Ozgur, Turkey

2016-11-02 17:16:48 UTC

We always do Circle Time after the club activities which students work together and they make some group activities. That is the most fruitful time of the teamwork. This king of participation improve the efficiency of the future works and they become more closer as a team. Technology is useful when the task is become easier, faster or funny with it.

Rosália Ribeiro, Portugal

rosaliaribeiro_ — 2016-11-02 18:01:45 UTC

Rosália Ribeiro, Portugal

rosaliaribeiro_ — 2016-11-02 18:01:47 UTC

It's very interesting the experience shared by the teacher in the movie!
It's a very rich experience in collaborative learning. Students not only learn the content, but also develop collaborative skills.
I have had some similar experiences, but with older students (12-15 years old). My students create learning resources in group (website, presentations, mind maps ...), as they develop their project they reflect on the work. Analyze what they have done, what remains to be done, identify problems or difficulties they had to face and present possible solutions. Reflect on the performance of each of the group members, they evaluate themselves and evaluate their peers by giving them advice on what to do to improve.
This type of learning experience brings many benefits if they are developed continuously. The positive effects can only be observed in the long run.
In negative terms, sometimes in heterogeneous groups, some members may struggle to keep pace with their peers. This implies a very close monitoring by the teacher. But I don't believe it's beneficial to work always with homogeneous groups. There must be a good dynamic management of group work, with continuous monitoring by the teacher to intervene in the most problematic situations.

Ângela e Tânia, Portugal

taniaalves23 — 2016-11-02 19:44:10 UTC

The video shows many strategies to develop collaborative work. Students showed skills in research, sharing, presentation and speaking skills. This type of class brings many benefits to students in the learning process. In our classes, we also create conditions for students to learn as a team.

Salomé, Portugal

2016-11-02 19:51:49 UTC

Unfortunately I do not have this type of technology in my classroom.
I find it very interesting to work with students in this way. Learning focused on students, motivating them and promoting autonomy.

Palmira Serrano, Portugal

palmiraserrano — 2016-11-02 20:22:45 UTC

Palmira Serrano, Portugal

palmiraserrano — 2016-11-02 20:22:46 UTC

Collaborative learning project-based learning through is a very motivating and facilitating learning, to assimilate and apply knowledge. I think the 'circle time' described in this video should always be present when there is teamwork, it is a very important way of evaluation for future projects.
I agree that 'Technology passe useful in class Especially When collaborative practices are used' either for search or for release of the final product.

Angela Capezzuto, Italy

angilu56 — 2016-11-02 21:32:41 UTC

Although I've never called it circle time, we've had feedback sessions about positive and negative aspects of group work with my students who are much older than the pupils in the video. I must say negative aspects and problems when discussed can be solved, whereas if they weren't brought out in the open could lead to bigger problems in future. So it's a good way of facing issues when they arise.
Collaborative learning, such as the activity in the video, is really wonderful for inclusive practices because even students who weren't easily drawn into classroom activities finally become interested and don't feel left out.

Peter (Ireland)

maxipetemcc — 2016-11-02 23:26:07 UTC

I have used Circle Time but not in this way. It has given me an idea of using it differently. Technology is best used collaboratively on most occasions as it allows pupils to share, discuss and learn from each other. But there are moments when a pupil should be allowed work individually with technology to allow him/her to learn independently. having done this, it might be possible to share the learning

Maria Rizza/ Sicily

2016-11-02 23:31:40 UTC

The video shows clearly how to let students work in a collaborative way through PBL; i like this methodology and I often plan my lessons in order to promote collaborative learning, because I think that this si a good way to develop the 21st century skills in students. As for the “ circle time “ I must admit that I rarely do it, because of time matters. Working on BPL takes more time and energy both for the teachers and the students, who althouh appreciate this way of working, however they think that this is not the proper way to learn english language ; indeed they still have in mind the model of the teacher centered lessons and they think that this way of studying do not let them improve in their mastety of the language. Therefore,my students should change their thoughts about language learning; If I ask them if they like working in a collaborative way they answer that they do not mind it, but however, they prefer to use the textbook more than looking for information, selecting them and elaborate such information in order to create a final product. They find this way of studying more demanding and difficult . In short they feel safer and more confortable to work in the traditional way. This is due in my opinion to the fact that they are not used to studying in this way in the other subject. I use techonology in my casses , for example the fipped methodology, google drive, Titanpad etc, I give my students the opportunity to create videos, e-book, on line presentations, of coursse. I agree that the ICT are useful for enhancing collabation among students. But again, my students do not appreciate a lot this kind of working because I am the only teacher in their class who uses this methodology, so they criticize me quite often.� m a�y��A�

María, Spain

mnapalf — 2016-11-02 23:46:58 UTC

We have sort of "circle time", although we don't call it loke that. I use to have several feedbak sessions along the course: on workgroup, on their understanding of the concepts so far, on the class dynamics... My students are much older (university).
Technology has proven very useful sometimes: some of the students don't dare to express their views or opinions in public, but feel more comfortable answering an anonymous questionaire on our LMS.

Rui Vieira, Portugal

miguelvieira_com — 2016-11-03 00:06:55 UTC

This method can be very useful because it can make easier the self-evaluation and coleagues evaluation about each work.

It promotes collaboration between students and can also promote knowledge bridges between subjects.

I really liked this inspiring video, and I will certainly put it in practice!

Erika, Colombia

erikahobrecker — 2016-11-03 01:44:20 UTC

Working with projects is one of my favourite ways of working with groups. Having the studeents fullfill all the stepsd to building and creating a project requieres that they work in a collaborative way. I use different types of technology, which helps and makes students want to inquiere about the subject. Sometimes I have difficulties when sharing their results.

Adina Marcu,Romania

adinamarcu9 — 2016-11-03 14:53:06 UTC

Many strategies in this video.Collaborative practice is very useful and in my school we use it all the time.

Monika/Hungary

2016-11-03 16:19:11 UTC

I think, project-based learning helps students :develop skills for living in a knowledge-based, highly technological Society encourages by doing the following:

It lets the teacher have multiple assessment opportunities.
It allows a child to demonstrate his or her capabilities while working independently.
It shows the child's ability to apply desired skills such as doing research.
It develops the child's ability to work with his or her peers, building teamwork and group skills.
It allows the teacher to learn more about the child as a person.
It helps the teacher communicate in progressive and meaningful ways with the child or a group of children on a range of issues.

Aid

2016-11-03 17:01:54 UTC

Aidan, Ireland

2016-11-03 17:01:55 UTC

The use of 'circle time' in the lesson shown on the video was interesting. It facilitated opportunities for worthwhile and relevant feedback. I agree with the idea that technology is useful, it facilitated the project based aspects of the lesson and is often important to work in groups due to limited resources. I liked the idea of producing a project and sharing or working with another class in another country using technology. It is a methodology I would be keen to explore.

Nadia, Italy

nadia_amaroli — 2016-11-03 17:56:33 UTC

I've never tried the circle time, I've only read it into books. I'm not sure about its effectivity. I usually use a self assessment for the team work in which each student must think in deep about th elearning process.
I do agree about technology in leaning and mostly in collaborative methodology.

Domenica Marino, Italy

marinomimma16 — 2016-11-03 22:24:14 UTC

I teach in a vocational school for hotel services and catering, in the previous school year, I created a project using the cooperative work for writing a cookery book.

The students selected ancient Sicilian recipes with the half of their biology and cookery teachers. They prepared cards with scientific informations.

During the presentation of the text to the public, students have cooked a few dishes in the book that were offered to visitors during the event.

Alessandra/Italy

2016-11-04 12:23:51 UTC

I have not tried the circle time yet but I provided group evaluations grids where the group takes into considerations pros and cons of the experience of collaborative learning.I agree with Francesca, technology is important for motivation but also for the wide choices of expressing content it offers. You have to give students all the tools possible to become protagonist of the learning process. the use of ICT is also inclusive.

Angela/Italy

angelina_giacchetti — 2016-11-04 18:30:24 UTC

I agree technology becomes useful in class especially in collaborative practices. I go through utility of technology when we have long-time day and students became tired, but also for difficult subject. using movies or animation can help in understanding and recollection

Maria/Portugal

2016-11-04 23:10:11 UTC

Yes I have carried out a similar exercises, sometimes I have seen evidence of collaborative work and sometimes don`t. Some students work together easiest than others. Some students have a “culture of work” and some don`t. For this I agree technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used. Ours students are a “Technology´s child”, most of them grew with technology that`s what learn/work with technologies is so motivator for them.

Riina, Estonia

2016-11-06 08:48:04 UTC

I have recently done it with my students in year 7. The students liked it. First I told the topic and I asked the students to think and tell the goals what they would learn through this activity. At the end of this topic the students discussed how they achieved the goals through this topic and what they could do differently in the future. I think technology is useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used. It makes working effectively and it gives more information and chances to create something more. The students like using the smartphones and tablets while they are learning because they use theses devices every day and it is common thing to do. I think that here the teachers can influence the students to use these devices by doing something creatively, not just being on the Internet and chatting and watching the videos on YouTube.

Jose, Portugal

2016-11-06 16:33:49 UTC

I agree that collaborative practices through project-based learning with technology improves the classroom environment and therefore learning if students have already developed collaborative competencies and technology basic skills before. I use to implement this kind of exercises with 7th and 8th grades, in an introduction topic or for revising background topics.

Simona,Romania

simona_ratan — 2016-11-06 17:27:59 UTC

I want to carry projects on the eTwinning platform.

Monica Boccoli, Italy

mobocco — 2016-11-06 17:46:50 UTC

I like explicity discussing with my pupils about how the group work was. I think that this attitude is positive towards the promotion of good teaching-learning situations. My pupils know the circle time's rules: these are very important in order to respect each other.

Monica Boccoli, Italy

mobocco — 2016-11-06 17:47:51 UTC

Marta, Portugal

istruka — 2016-11-06 18:03:01 UTC

I don't usually use technologies with my students because they still have some difficulties using the computer and they tend to google subjects that do not have to do with the class theme. Also, I find that students are missing their creative self by using their computers and tablets for everything so I usually urge them to use their hands.

Sorry...

But the class in the video is what I aim for. In my present course on Special Needs Education, one of the things I'm preparing to do is project work based classes as inclusion promotion in the classroom.

Sirkku / Turku, Finland

sirkku_alin — 2016-11-06 19:05:20 UTC

'Circle time' is a very useful way of evaluating the work students have been doing in groups. I think evaluation is a key element of collaborative learning and definitely a key skill to be developed when learning through project-based learning.

Elisa Saraiva, Portugal

2016-11-06 21:09:55 UTC

I never use this kind of exercises with my students.
I agree with the idea that technology is useful for develop colaborative work (google drive, google docs, etc).

Cristina,Tenerife, Spain

2016-11-06 22:27:38 UTC

I have tried to introduce collaborative learning teaching in my classes through different projects and final products but not with so good results as we can see in this video. I really liked the idea and its development and the amazing final result. I agree technology improves learning but we can't access allways to those resources.

Fayna McNulty, Spain

faynally — 2016-11-07 00:17:01 UTC

I am starting to be a bit confused between cooperative learning and collaborative learning....
What I saw in this video, looked to me like cooperative learning in PBL, and that is how I sometimes work in my class (without the great ICT support, which lacks in my school), but more manipulative, as we are second graders.
So, collaborative learning is working in groups towards a final product within the whole class?

Cristina Fuertes, Spain

2016-11-07 08:15:30 UTC

I have tried to develop a complele subjetc using PBL, but is not easy.
The students work a topic through a semester working in groups one topic an sharing the results with the classmates.

Ana Elisabete Teixeira - Vila Nova de cerveira- Portugal

anasaojoaoteixeira — 2016-11-07 12:08:49 UTC

Collaborative learning through project-based learning

anasaojoaoteixeira — 2016-11-07 13:30:14 UTC

Collaborative learning through project-based learning

Pedro Nunes, Portugal

pedronunesnomundo — 2016-11-07 14:34:51 UTC

In project-based learning, this is a fundamental moment!
Knowing that every step of the process is deeply connected with the precedent and the following ones, there's nothing as useful as stopping every now and then, to assess what went wrong and plan the future iniciatives.
And this is something to intensely train with our students, helping them to create reflection routines about teamwork, their individual contributes and their evolution as singular individuals.

Anna, Italy

materdona — 2016-11-07 18:12:55 UTC

I've never worked like that! I feel ashamed... My teaching methods are really old...I hope all these courses I'm taking part to will help me to modernise my methods

Marília Bação, Portugal

mariliabacao — 2016-11-07 22:16:03 UTC

No, I've never worked like this with my students. I've tried to introduce it in my classes but in don't have nor the technology nor the knowledge to do such a great thin

Nelly, Romania

anamarianeli — 2016-11-07 23:00:45 UTC

Modern methods are welcome in educational activities. I have performed no activity using this method, but I would like.

Rita Félix, Portugal

rrodaf — 2016-11-07 23:13:13 UTC

I never tried this approach with my students, sometimes I developed working with groups using technological resources but I never used the circle time. Like the video shows technology is essential to work this way.

Gülseren, Turkiye

2016-11-08 07:46:52 UTC

It's always welcomed by the children to use technology in their classes. Sounds, visual images..always attract them. Moreoever, collaboration learning support firstly their social skills and academic success

Thomas, Austria

2016-11-08 08:13:21 UTC

I have never tried this "circle time" either. But following the discussion/postings here I also think that the application of technology in class is vital for carrying out such a project.
I also think that the individual assessment is rather hard when pupils are working together in groups, because you have to rely on the group working together as a group.

Maria Vasilopoulou, Greece

mbasilopoulou — 2016-11-08 14:23:41 UTC

I always try to evaluate my students working collaboratively through discussion most of the times. We focus on the difficulties encountered and ways they adopted to handle them. I believe this helps learners improve their collaborative work but I still feel there is lots to be done on my own part.About technology's role in collaborative activities I can't but agree as this is something I have witnessed working on European projects.At a national level I believe our students are not trained enough to use technology as a means to accomplish collaborative tasks but I hope this will change in the future.

Gülşen Korucu,Turkey

gulsenkorucu — 2016-11-08 23:45:14 UTC

I apply this method withour individual technological opportunities.I use smart phone in class .However ,I try to encourage collaboration with etwinning projects and simple and impressive group works.At first, I have to face many matters such as noise , unfriendly attitidues,competeting for leadership and individual preferences.But I determine the rules properly and clearly.I never change my opinions about the rules.they at last accept and focus on the task

Lucia, Italy

2016-11-09 13:06:08 UTC

I have had experience of group work so far, in particular as regards e-Twinning projects but using technological tools at school is not always possible. And desks don't help to join students! Group works are so important in order to learn how to share relevant experiences.

Barbara, Slovenia

barbara_valic — 2016-11-09 17:10:33 UTC

We have similar exercise as the ‘circle time’. It definetly improve students collaboration skills. I agree that technology is useful in class becouse students are motivated to learn together, search informations and to do projects together.

Marianthi Arvanitidou - Greece

1canislupus22 — 2016-11-09 19:24:05 UTC

helps students apply what they learn to real-life experiences and provides an all-around enriching education.

Sanela Jukic, Croatia

2016-11-09 21:14:57 UTC

I carry out the similar evaluation in my class and yes it is very useful because taking responsibility for your group or analyzing what was great and what maybe went wrong is actually a part of that collaborative work.
Using technology in collaborative practice for me comes useful for remote collaborative work.

Wilson Canelo/Colombia

2016-11-10 03:46:14 UTC

Indeed, usually pupils and me discusses the work carried out un the lab, and the use if ICT is something habitual due to the usual use of smart phones, tablets. Use of ebooks is also very attractive because they are interactive and access to videos is very easy. That environment encourage students to learn more.

Ana Nojkovska

spasovska_ana — 2016-11-10 12:06:02 UTC

I always try to carry out the planned activities, and to give my students time to discuss, but Sometimes we don't have enough time to organize everything as we would like to do it. Plus in my school we have too many students( classes with 30 students or more) which makes it even more difficult.

Mimma, Italy

mimma_gioia — 2016-11-10 13:07:26 UTC

I never used the circle time but I think that it is very interesting . It is a method to help students interact and socialize on a given topic. Activities such as circle time are quite useful and in my opinion a great way to motivate the students. Project- basic learning is a dynamic approach to teaching in which students explore real world problems developing cross- curriculum skills while working in a small collaborative group. The benefits that I see in collaborative learning are learning from others, the feeling of being part of a team and students involvement.

Emilia Dan - Ro

edan7077 — 2016-11-10 18:43:32 UTC

Visible lesson is what I want it for my students .
I tried to use the project method
It is entertaining and motivating students . in the future I think this is the way to motivate students and get results

Dana P, Romania

2016-11-11 12:39:16 UTC

I never tried this approach with my children! I have had experience of group work. Sometimes I developed working with groups using technological resources but I never used the circle time. Very interesting

Cristina Abegão

2016-11-12 19:43:07 UTC

I find this activities very interesting but I don´t have this type of technologies in my classroom. Sometimes my students work in group but they just watch the projected work. Or they go to a different classroom full of computers to make some searches.

Anna Maria, Italy

mattielloannamaria — 2016-11-13 09:02:58 UTC

I have never used the circle time even if I often experience collaborative learning in my class and at the end of the activities we discuss about the work done. I'll try it!!!

Cristina Antal - Romania

cristiantal44 — 2016-11-13 10:37:32 UTC

Yes, I am using the project method. I foun it interesting, motivating, very useful and the children love it. We do not have the necessary technology and this is a minus.

Bella Montero - Indonesia

bergara_bella — 2016-11-13 15:40:59 UTC

I have never tried the 'circle time' whereby students identify the positive and negative aspects of their group work. I think that this approach to evaluating collaborative work is a novel idea and worth emulating. I do agree that technology helps a lot in collaborative work. Fast real-time search for information in the internet can best be facilitated through technology. I am especially impressed with the video conferencing with students in Ireland that led to greater understanding of the Italian students' study of Celtic history.

Besbes zied- Monastir,Tunisia

2016-11-13 18:33:50 UTC

I found PBL very interesting; so it maintain the creativity in the classroom and surely give other opportunity to discover another amazing education

Honorata Pereira

honoratapereira — 2016-11-13 18:44:09 UTC

How often we hear the students argue that many of the subjects that discuss along their academic path are irrelevant. In fact, in many disciplines, curricula are so obsolete that students forget most of the content immediately after the evaluation. So in the last year I propose, to my students the challenge to look a problem in their region and designing a simple curriculum and organize it, to achieve the skills required by the national curriculum and, at the same time, find a solution for the problem. This challenge gives opportunity to students, their families and other community discover for yourself what they would like to learn in school and to communicate their ideas, desires and aspirations.Thus, the project divides into three parts that make up the magnificence of the region, fauna, flora and water.
I think this is a good example of collaborative work not only between students but also between teachers and community.

Rosa Stella, Italy

rscassotti — 2016-11-13 22:24:49 UTC

I tried to use the circle time method to discuss with students the positive and negative aspects of a video conference with students of other schools. It was great, the students analyzed their behaviour, their feelings and fears and proposed to realize this type of activity again.
I think that technology makes the communication in collaborative learning quicker.

Virginia Esteves, Portugal

virginiaesteves — 2016-11-14 00:39:16 UTC

I have carried several similar exercises in my lessons. As an eTwinner I have this type of project work, we plan together the project work and the final product we want to achieve with the project. Groups have different task but all the group have the same aims that will lead to the final product.
Collaboration in the classroom and with other partners motivate students and learning is a pleasure!
Sometimes school has few equipments but we always manage a way to do it! Creativity is what we want from our students but to do this type of project teachers have to be creative too.
This is the challenge I like in education!

Lucrezia Di Molfetta - Italy

edimol — 2016-11-14 16:21:04 UTC

I have never used the circle time because I've never heard about it. I find this activity very interesting and I'll try it in the future for sure.

Gina-Lithuania

2016-11-14 19:59:51 UTC

Very good method.

Jeane de Fatima, Brazil

jeanedefatima — 2016-11-15 11:56:00 UTC

A Tecnologia utilizada Como PARA SUPORTE Uma Construção de túnel de UM do Tempo Recursos OS usando Fazer Google Drive, Desenhos Que São examinadas Para Ser inserido no contexto da Sua Viagem Para O Passado com caracteres Criada usando o idioma Inglês.
Interactividade com Crianças de Outra escola em Conversas com Vídeo em Inglês.

Cecília - Portugal

prof_ceciliamira — 2016-11-15 18:30:51 UTC

I've never used a similar approach to video with my students. Technology in any kind of learning is a motivational factor for students.

Isabel Cabo - Portugal

alunoscooperantes — 2016-11-16 23:50:29 UTC

I use the "circle time" method to discuss with students the positive and negative aspects, and how to improve next time. I think that "Technology becomes useful in class especially when collaborative practices are used", because tech motivate our student to do their work.

Paula Duarte, Portugal

2016-11-17 16:52:12 UTC

I have never participated in collaborative projects with mathematics but I have participated in several projects etwinning, Comenius and Erasmus +. For example, I participated in an etwinning project with a Sciences teacher (Sónia Correia) in my school at the FWL . It is too early to see if this work has improved the skills of the students, but it has certainly hurt the teachers involved.

Raquel Forca, Portugal

cvivaalmodovar — 2016-11-18 21:16:21 UTC

Great method. I have never use it. Using tecnhology in class it engage the students on another level of concentration.

Cristina Parente, Portugal

CrisParente — 2016-11-19 01:17:01 UTC

I've already used exercises similar to "circle time", not only with group work. This certainly improves their skills, namely their collaboration skills and their evaluation skills as well. Technology becomes useful. For example, when we use online collaboration tools, such as Google Drive. Each student can give his/her contribution to the work the group is doing, can add or change what his/her peer has done. As a result, they work together, they shared responsibilities, they attain their goal.

Anna Bormida

annabormida — 2016-11-20 09:21:55 UTC

Genova, Italy
I've already used exercises similar to "circle time", but not with group work. It’s the next activity I’ll try to do. It’s not a long time that I practice group work so I try to develope strategies and the video is very useful. E twinning projects encourage me to practice group work. My students help each other in order to complete tasks or projects and they are happy to do it. Someone finds some difficult to give his/her ideas but day by day they increase their partecipation and give contribution to the group.

Technology becomes useful.

I haven’t already used tools with students. The way used from the teacher in the video help me to find a new way to work with devices in the classroom .

I know online collaboration tools, such as Google Drive, but I never use it with students.

Renata Večerková

vecerkovar53 — 2016-11-20 20:49:02 UTC

I have never used the circle time before. However, I would like to try it

Patrizia, Italy

patrizia_brion — 2016-11-21 18:58:30 UTC

I believe “circle time” is very interesting because the students become more aware of what they can do to improve. Sometimes we, teachers, skip this moment because we are running against time to comply with the planning.
As for the use of technology, it is very useful in a project-based learning. Students search for information, select it and organize it in a collaborative way, each member of the group giving opinions and ideas.

Amélia, Portugal

ameliamagalhaes — 2016-11-22 17:53:25 UTC

This is a truly inspiring video. It promotes collaboration between students and can also promote knowledge bridges between subjects. I have never used the circle time even if I often experience collaborative learning in my class and at the end of the activities we discuss about the work done. and I certainly will put it in practice.

Regina Griné, Portugal

regina_grine — 2016-11-23 01:31:14 UTC

I think it’s very important to monitorize how the groups are doing - monitorizing it in several moments and in several aspects during the process of a collaborative learning activity.

I usually provide my students with a “checklist” that helps them to seek the positive and negative aspects of what they are doing and solutions to improve what they think isn’t going great.

· Have we shown cooperation, respect, and a mutual effort to understand the other students in the group?

· Have I clearly, briefly, and precisely identified my stance on the group work?

· Have we clearly, briefly, and precisely identified our own stance on the class project?

Then, I ask them to rate other group members’ participation. These ideas encourage students to participate in group discussion and work, it helps them to monitor their own progress and their contribution to the on-task work, while also allowing to stop any disruptive or off-task behavior.

After that, we should compliment students who are dedicated to the task and working diligently. All students like to be recognized and it works as a boost moment for all groups.

This activity works great, not only to help students clarify their thoughts and develop their critical thinking skills, but it also provides them with a structured way to talk and think about these issues.

By providing an open platform for dialog, while teaching them how to work with one another and how to respect one another, we will be helping our students to develop a valuable life skill.

I realy agree that Technology can play a unique and vital role in collaborative learning by facilitating group collaboration, providing structure for group tasks, and allowing members of groups to communicate even if they are not working face to face. Now more than ever, technology allows students to collaborate on projects without the constraints of time or geography.

Marina-Italy

marina_bottacin — 2016-11-23 13:15:22 UTC

I absolutely agree, that-s why I have created my own website, in order to create a community, to cooperate in a positive way and to decrease student-s stress. By getting rewards on the net, they also feel more satisfied with themselves and they care they work

E. Żołnieruk, Poland

ezolnieruk — 2016-11-26 23:22:52 UTC

Dyskutowałam z uczniami na temat efektywności pracy w grupie w formie swobodnej wypowiedzi chętnych uczniów oraz w formie ankiet. Dyskutowaliśmy też nad możliwymi rozwiązaniami tego co oceniliśmy za naszą porażkę, niedociągnięcie.
Zgadzam się z stwierdzeniem, że technologia jest przydatna podczas pracy na zajęciach z wykorzystaniem różnych metod, nie tylko podczas pracy grupowej. Podczas prezentowanej lekcji uczniowie wyszukiwali informacji korzystając z zasobów internetu, skanowali materiały, rozmawiali na żywo z rówieśnikami z innej szkoły. Myślę, że było to dla nich ważne doświadczenie pozwalające zrozumieć to z czym spotykają się na co dzień: przenikaniem się rzeczywistości i wirtualnego świata.

As an experienced teacher having worked in international environment, I am keen on promoting project-based learning. Not only can it enhance students' knowledge, but also it can be the ground for reflection upon the group work and the role of each student in the process.

paulina_rozmus — 2016-11-27 20:13:47 UTC

Themistoklis, Greece

txronop1 — 2016-11-28 23:40:12 UTC

I have designed project based activities similar to 'circle time' described in the video but I found them to much difficult to carry out especially when the time is restricted and/or the students are not used to work collaboratively and so they can't easily understand the issues. I agree that technology supports collaborative learning in class fully and efficiently.

Irina-Romania

raduirinageorgiana — 2016-12-30 12:49:25 UTC

I've asked my pupils about how the common work went varios times. Possitive answers have been that they enjoy working together and they have build stronger rellations and negative answears were that some of them collaborateed less than others and sometimes disagree with them creating little discussions. We agreed that everybody has the wright to an oppinion and if they want to express themselves and convince the others that they are right, they have to bring strong arguments. Also, if we collaborate more often, the collaboration improuve.
I agree that technology is verry important in class, more if it is used with collaborative methods, because they are two tools that pupils love and motivates them.

Claudia / Italia

claudietta_ciucci — 2017-01-22 06:25:04 UTC

I used the circle time after a collaborative activity of science. I split my 19 pupils into groups of three and using the Kahoot application, built of multiple choice test on the topics covered. The achievements have been different, have implemented their knowledge and cooperated doing research, all this very amusing. Later we talked about highlighting the positive and negative aspects.

Ahmet Faruk YILDIRIM - TURKEY

ahmetfaruk76 — 2017-11-02 06:17:01 UTC

Last year we had a project with our students that is named "Finding the probable shutcut on the grid line with Lego EV3 robotictic device".it was ver effective learning about math subject.

Alexandre, Brazil

alexandre_barros_vieira — 2017-11-05 19:29:42 UTC

Well, I was , at least, a little bit less sad when I read some comments also saying they have not done it before, as me. I will surely try to do it in a near future .
I agree that technology becomes useful when used in a collaborative way because other than that students would, individually, get distracted , lose focus and it wouldn´t help.

2019-11-04 16:01:33 UTC

Learning support assistant will enable all students with emotional, physical. Mental and social needs to have equal opportunities in their learning in order for them to complete their learning successfully.
Charmaine