Forget the smartphone---get your hands dirty!

Although the digital age means that information is available at the tip of your fingers, the tendency to consult technology rather than becoming immersed in an authentic experiment can trans... See More

Although the digital age means that information is available at the tip of your fingers, the tendency to consult technology rather than becoming immersed in an authentic experiment can translate into information gained via a narrow focus. This activity describes how a kindergarten teacher involved her students in studying soil and the organisms that live within it. The thrill of discovery was heightened through hands-on activities and helped to build conceptual understanding within the students. This article clearly conveys the idea that technology is no substitute for the real thing; learning how to interact with the Earth is more stimulating than looking up an answer on a smartphone. The inquiry activities described could be easily modified for nearly any level.