CIT 710 Computers as Cognitive Tools

Lionel G Smith 29663513

1. Briefly discuss conceptual change as seen by Jonassen.

The cognitive process of adapting and reconstructing the theory that humans
from an early age build simplified and intuitive personal theories to explain the
world they live in and through experience they mature their theories as they
learn, this is cognitive change.

2. Briefly explain Jonassen’s use of the term modeling.

Modelling is used to externalise the understanding of subject matter and to
give the learner the opportunity to build that what they are thinking of to
assess if they understand it on both levels, cognitively as well as
physically.

3. Briefly discuss the meaning of the word mindtool.

Mindtools are computer tools that make the learner engage in facilitating
cognitive processing. Cognitive tools support , guide, and extend the
thinking processes of the learner. When using a mindtool, the
learner has to think harder. Mindtools facilitate learning and the meaning
making process.

4. Briefly state the purpose of modelling.

The teacher/facilitator can help the learners by building models of subject
content using technology-based modelling tools to bring about a change in
the learners.
Jonassen indicates that the sole purpose of computers is to support
meaningful learning.

5. Briefly discuss the modelling of domain knowledge, systems, thinking,

problem solving and experiences.
Domain knowledge is subject-matter expertise; knowledge about a specific field
of interest; knowledge about a specific content area. Mind map or system
modelling tools may be used.
6. Briefly discuss the limitations of mindtools.
Three limitations of mindtools are:
Cognitive load: Mindtools places a high load on the cognitive development of
children.
Developmental Differences: Some learners may not be on the cognitive level of
others to be able do what the teacher expects them to do.
Fidelity: Models are representations of interpretations of phenomena in the world
not the objects themselves.