Bird Watching?

Married2Teacher

Married2Teacher

Legacy Member
One thing my sixth grade teacher did that was fascinating was a deep study on birds, with multiple projects related to them. This also included making a folio of what we learned about them. And naturally there were tests, etc. The fun part though? At the end of the course, we got to go on a lengthy bird watching hike with the teacher. We brought along our folios and noted when we found a given species.

Anyone else think this is a fun way to introduce young learners? How would you improve upon it with modern web/mobile technology? Thanks.
 
There's an app called Naturalist where you can actually identify a whole host of plants and wildlife if you take a photo of it! Birds are part of the app's specialty so it could be really useful to incorporate into a class lesson plan. I've got the app on my own personal devices but I'd often thought about using it for lessons too!
 
sarahb said:
There's an app called Naturalist where you can actually identify a whole host of plants and wildlife if you take a photo of it! Birds are part of the app's specialty so it could be really useful to incorporate into a class lesson plan. I've got the app on my own personal devices but I'd often thought about using it for lessons too!
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I have to check out app. Kind of sounds like Pokemon Go, a game where you actually have to go out to obtain different creatures. With that Naturalist app you might turn an everyday errand into an adventure.

Now, as for how technology could be implemented for learning, I'd say work on the basis of interactivity and socializing. Interactivity offers a way to test your knowledge and exercises your skills. Socializing through social media or internet in general would be suitable to learn in groups, receive feedback and help you stay in contact with other people on the same level as you.
 
dullian said:
I have to check out app. Kind of sounds like Pokemon Go, a game where you actually have to go out to obtain different creatures. With that Naturalist app you might turn an everyday errand into an adventure.

Now, as for how technology could be implemented for learning, I'd say work on the basis of interactivity and socializing. Interactivity offers a way to test your knowledge and exercises your skills. Socializing through social media or internet in general would be suitable to learn in groups, receive feedback and help you stay in contact with other people on the same level as you.
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Wow, I have never heard of this app! I have it currently downloading. I am into this kind of thing, so it comes as a shock that ive never heard of it. Sounds like something my kids would enjoy as well. Thank you for sharing! :)
 
Wow. That's fun. If I was the student, I would be glad to go on a hike because reading what you have shared, I got jealous that as a student, you get to experience an adventure like that.
 
It's great that you brought this up. I have recently taken up the hobby myself, simply for my own enjoyment, but it is indeed educational across many subjects.

One thing to think about; there are ornithological societies and groups in many parts of the world, where I live there are 3 offering twice weekly guided "birding outings"

Healthy outdoor activity and natural science combined. Plus, who doesn't like birds? Even the least engaged pupils will respond to the thrill of the hunt.
 
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