http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction
It is important to understand that integrating technology means more than just teaching basic computer skills or learning different software. Integrating technology must incorporate four key components: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real-world experts. New tech tools for visualizing and modeling, especially in the sciences, offer students ways to experiment and observe phenomenon and to view results in graphic ways that aid in understanding. Technology also enhances the relationship between the teacher and students. When technology is effectively integrated into subject areas, teachers grow into roles of adviser, content expert, and coach.
1. What are some ways to intellectually challenge the students?
2. Do you think the real-world connection is always a good thing?
3. Do you feel technology really enhances the relationship between the teacher and student?
The issue is not intellectually challenging one student. A teacher in a one on one environment can customize education, however it is more of a problem to challenge all of the students in a classroom of 26 or so students. Technology allows for more differentiated instruction within the classroom and allows the instructor to cater to more then one learning style or intellectual level at once. I also think technology benefits those students who do not like to speak up in class even when they may not understand the information in the way it is portrayed. These students can stay anonymous and ask questions through a web based service. The problem with using too much technology however is limiting the students social skills and interactions.
ReplyDeleteTechnology is so important in education (obviously I feel that way being in the Ed Media program). Things that I love about technology in education is that there are so many ways to challenge students (and each student can be challenged differently and on their level). I also feel like teaching things that have real world connections are so important. A lot of times, students say "why are we learning this?" Plus digital literacy is something that everyone should learn. Technology can help the students have direct access to their teachers. Which and either be a good thing or a bad thing. You can skype or email your teacher.
ReplyDeleteSome ways to challenge students is to allow them to learn and gather information on their own. If they are having trouble as a teacher they should guide them to different resources but allow the students to figure out the problem.
ReplyDeleteThere will be instances were students will need real world connections and they will need this as a learning feature because when you work in a big organization you will need to have the ability to interact with people and have team work.
The relationship between the teacher and student might change from previous years, in that now teachers will primarily guide the students to the right resources and then the students themselves must find the right answer.
I agree with Alanna that technology provides a way to challenge students of various learning styles and abilities. The more methods you have to share and present information to the students, the more chances they will have for success. Ultimately, real-world connection is essential to any learning, whether it be technological or not. The more students can relate what they're learning in the classroom to real-world situations or something in their own life, the better they will be able to learn, retain and apply what they have learned. Finally, I think technology can definitely assist in enhancing the relationship between teacher and student because, as you said Coach, it promotes active engagement. Therefore, a student in a "traditional" classroom who may not be engaged and not have a relationship with the teacher would not have the same enhanced relationship between a teacher and a student who is actively engaged and participating through the use of technology.
ReplyDeleteOne of the great benefits of technology is the ability to address different learning styles simultaneously and to engage students who otherwise would not be active participants. Michelle mentions frequent interaction and feedback, which brings to mind the use of the clickers we have talked about in several classes. The ability for not only the students but also the teachers to get instant feedback can allow the teacher to tailor her lesson to the students' needs in real time. The use of real world examples and models can be so valuable, bringing things like famous art museums and works of architecture into any classroom. These types of technologies, and the ability to access experts, can level the playing field for lower income districts.
ReplyDelete