Reflection after carrying out the activity in class (activity done by students of 4ºCSE).
Problems and Solutions
Problem 1: Difficulty with the Tool: Some students initially struggled with using TimeToast, particularly with adding images or links.
o Solution: I walked around the classroom offering one-on-one assistance and demonstrated the process again for students who needed help. After a brief tutorial, the students gained more confidence.
Problem 2: Finding Reliable Sources: Some students had trouble finding credible information quickly and accurately.
o Solution: I provided a list of recommended sources, such as library databases and academic articles, to help guide their research.
Problem 3: Group Coordination: A few groups had issues dividing tasks and coordinating who would add what to the timeline.
o Solution: I encouraged each group to assign roles (e.g., one student focused on research, another on adding entries to the timeline). They also used shared documents for easier collaboration.
The Students' Reaction
· How did they feel about using TimeToast?:
o The students were excited to use TimeToast because it was a new, interactive tool that allowed them to be creative while also learning. They appreciated being able to work together and contribute different elements (images, dates, descriptions). Some mentioned that the timeline format helped them understand the material better.
o They also felt motivated by the visual aspect of the project and enjoyed adding multimedia elements, which made the activity feel like more than just a traditional research task.
Things to Change / Improve Next Time
1. More Preparation with Research Skills: While TimeToast was easy to use, some students struggled with researching the material. Next time, I would give them more structured guidance on how to find reliable sources and how to organize their research before entering it into the timeline.
2. Clearer Group Roles: I would emphasize the importance of clear role distribution from the start to avoid confusion about who is responsible for each task.
3. More Class Time for Collaboration: Some groups needed more time to work together in class. In the future, I’d provide additional in-class time for group collaboration, ensuring that everyone has a chance to contribute.
3 Ways TimeToast Helped Achieve the Learning Objectives
1. Promoting Understanding of Historical Context: The timeline format helped students see how different works and authors contributed to the development of Gothic literature over time, reinforcing the chronological understanding of the genre.
2. Developing Research and Presentation Skills: TimeToast’s multimedia features allowed students to research and present information creatively. By adding images, links, and detailed descriptions, students learned how to synthesize and present historical data.
3. Fostering Collaborative Learning: The tool’s collaborative nature encouraged teamwork, allowing students to divide tasks efficiently, discuss ideas, and combine their research to create a comprehensive timeline.
A timeline of Gothic Literatura in Britain and the U.S.
