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113 views

Mindtools

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Spreadsheets: An Excellent Mindtool Hannah Aliyetti

01/31/2014
TLED 530 Old Dominion University

A mindtool is a technological device that engages the user by providing a unique way to interpret information and scrutinize it (Jonassen, 2000). Although also used for productivity, spreadsheets can be seen as a helpful mindtool. Spreadsheets are often used in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields to crunch quantitative information. They are offered for free on GoogleDocs but can also be found through programs such as Excel or other open source software. There are many benefits that spreadsheets provide to users such as calculations, comparisons, graphical representations, and more. The use of spreadsheets allows individuals to examine the information they are presented (Jonassen et al., 1998). When opening up a spreadsheet, the user finds themselves in front of a screen filled with unlimited, unfilled boxes. Like other mindtools, experience using the specific tool is required in order to fully benefit from the potential it offers. Data can be entered within the fields which are all given specific identities, such as A1. The data can then be chosen based on the fields and placed within formulas that the user enters and a calculation will then be made. The data can also be listed in different columns or rows which can allow the user to make numerical comparisons in the data before creating a graphical representation. Certain data can be selected to provide a graphical representation to allow the user to visualize the information gathered. Changing the data in one field can affect a whole calculation in another field (Jonassen et al., 1998). This all may sound complicated but spreadsheets are not too hard to learn without practice. There are numerous websites and videos out that help users use spreadsheets to their highest functionalities. Spreadsheets can be viewed as both knowledge construction tools and reflective thinking tools. In the field of science, the data provided is usually divulged from performing a set of experiments and inputting the data within a spreadsheet to determine trends and validate

hypotheses. In this light, the user finds the data on their own and uses the spreadsheet to form knowledge based on the data they see within the spreadsheet. They are able to form a conclusion based on the hypothesis they derived. With respect to reflective thinking, spreadsheets provide a way for the user to later reflect on the data that has been inputted (Jonassen, 2000). This mindtool is an invaluable part of the many pieces of technology provided to students. Learning to use a spreadsheet in school is an excellent skill to learn and can help in future endeavors, such as creating oneself a budget sheet. Spreadsheets provide engagement to students across the curricula. Science students, whether they are in biology, physics, or chemistry, view this tool as being necessary to the learning process. History and English classes can use spreadsheets to compare information presented within readings. Math classes can use this technology to figure out tougher calculations. Lastly, students of all ages can include spreadsheets in their everyday lives by inputting their schedule into a nice chart for them to use. In conclusion, computers offer the use of specific tools directed to engage an intended learner in critical thinking activities to better understand the world around them, namely mindtools. No matter the field of interest, mindtools can be used in ways that are still being unveiled. Spreadsheets, in particular, offer students and everyday users excellent opportunities for engaging within education and life. Spreadsheets are often confused as being merely production tools, but they are much more. They enhance learning for all individuals by providing a mean of computation, organization, and graphical representation (Jonassen, 2000). Available applications Computer-based Affordable Knowledge construction

Generalizable Critical thinking Transferable learning Simple, powerful Easily learnable

Works Cited Jonassen, D. H., Carr, C., & Yueh, H. (March 1998). Computers as mindtools for engaging learners in critical thinking. TechTrends, 42(2), 24-32. Jonassen, D. H. (2000). Computers as mindtools for schools. Prentice Hall. Retrieved from https://www.blackboard.odu.edu/bbcswebdav/pid-3899348-dt-content-rid3331637_2/courses/201320_SPRING_TLED530_28798/201220_SPRING_TLED530_2 7623_ImportedContent_20130110105452/201210_FALL_TLED430_15593_ImportedCo ntent_20120827110407/mindtools.pdf

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