Situated Learning

When reading about situated learning, it is hard to argue against Gee’s claim, “[….] schools must give children embodied experiences in and through which they can form networks of associations that must continually be rechecked against the world” (94). He compares this type of learning (situated learning) with the traditional learning style. The traditional learning style is one in which schools teach children to memorize facts and grand generalizations. It seems clear to me that the situated learning method far supersedes that of the traditional learning style.
I can’t help but go back to the “teaching to the test” teaching style that “seems” to have developed out of NCLBs plan to ensure curriculum across the US. Unfortunately, teachers are being directed to the “teaching to the test” method of teaching because their schools need results on the tests, their principal get the pressure from the administration and so it trickles down to the classroom and the kids. So how can we get our kids to learn and want to learn? Gee is showing us that kids are learning video games which are extremely difficult and challenging. He is claiming that because they want to learn then they learn. He holds the view that, “[…] humans learn, think, and solve problems by reflecting on their previous embodied experiences in the world. That is, humans have experiences, store these experiences, and make connections or associations among them” (73). Personally, when I can relate to what I am learning then it is easier to learn, for example, going to college as a Freshman and Sophomore is not as exciting as a Junior and a Senior because those years are mostly spent on GE courses whereas in your last two years you are working closer to courses that match your major…match your semiotic domain.
In conclusion, I have to agree with the arguments made by Gee in his chapter on situated learning. I think as future teachers we really need to examine our system for teaching the kids and perhaps be willing to make some changes to how we teach our students, moving away from parts of the traditional method and adding in aspects of the situated learning method