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TEACHING MODULE
We've given our teaching modules a face-lift. If you have any questions or comments, please email teachingmodules@edutopia.org. This Technology Integration module has all the same great content as the original version, but we've made it easier for you to access Edutopia articles, video, and other resources, and now you can post a comment and start a discussion, too.
Technology Integration
An overview of the GLEF teacher-preparation and professional-development instructional module for technology integration.
"We're Here to Raise Kids": Character Development Is Key:
Students prepare a day ahead for Ben Franklin Broadcast News by downloading images to be used as backdrops for the credits.
Credit: Kathleen Duxbury
The technology integration module is meant for use either after completion of the project-based learning module or with participants who are familiar with project-based learning. The module is designed for a two- to three-hour class or session. It can be used in conjunction with trainings of software applications that are used in classroom settings.
Part One, Guided Process, is designed to give participants a brief introduction to technology integration. It answers the questions "Why is technology integration important?"; "What is technology integration?"; and "How do you integrate technology into the classroom?"
Part Two, Group Participation, guides participants in envisioning technology integration. It asks participants to visit various educational Web sites. The participants are then asked to brainstorm ideas for technology integration garnered from visiting and discussing these sites. The tasks will be accomplished using group collaboration and hands-on use of technology the Internet.
The PowerPoint presentation found in the Resources section can be used to introduce the module, or be used as a stand-alone presentation.
The following ISTE NETS Standards have been addressed in this module:
1. Technology Operations and Concepts
- Demonstrate introductory knowledge, skills, and understanding of concepts related to technology (as described in the ISTE National Education Technology Standards for Students).
- Demonstrate continual growth in technology knowledge and skills to stay abreast of current and emerging technologies.
2. Planning and Designing Learning Environments and Experiences
- Design developmentally appropriate learning opportunities that apply technology-enhanced instructional strategies to support the diverse needs of learners.
- Apply current research on teaching and learning with technology when planning learning environments and experiences.
- Plan for the management of technology resources within the context of learning activities.
3. Teaching, Learning, and the Curriculum
- Facilitate technology-enhanced experiences that address content standards and student technology standards.
- Apply technology to develop students' higher order skills and creativity.
4. Assessment and Evaluation
- Apply technology in assessing student learning of subject matter using a variety of assessment techniques.
- Apply multiple methods of evaluation to determine students' appropriate use of technology resources for learning, communication, and productivity.
To find out the specific standards for your state visit emTech's Web site that links to all state departments of education.
Getting Started:
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Keyboarding First--Then, Technology Integration
Submitted by Cathy Walters (not verified) on February 22, 2008 - 12:01.
All these ideas and projects are wonderful, but your kids have to be able to type to integrate technology into the curriculum effectively and efficiently. The first step has got to be touch-typing by a qualified instructor. Our district teaches keyboarding to 3rd-5th graders and it has made all the difference--they can compose without having to concentrate on where a letter is on the keyboard, they can input data efficiently and are very comfortable at the keyboard. I feel this is one of the best "gifts" we give our students--a life skill they can use through college and in work.
See page 13 of http://www.iceberg.org/site/files/2006-issue3.pdf
We must teach typing in order to integrate?
Submitted by Andrew Moore (not verified) on April 9, 2008 - 19:50.
We must remember that proper technology integration doesn't only occur with your typical office productivity tools. If integration only occurred after students learned to touch type, that would mean that technology doesn't have anything to offer until the students are able to read and write. Without getting too wordy, let me list some technology projects that add value to the to curriculum without a huge need for typing skills:
1. Video - teacher creates, student created, 3rd party created. Visual literacy is one of the most important 21st Century skills we can teach.
2. Discussion forums - Many people argue that students shouldn't be allowed to use their Instant Message grammar in an academic environment. When the focus of your lesson is on the intelligent sharing of ideas concerning the causes and effects of the civil rights movement, do you really care if there are a few mispellings.
3. Simulation software - most of us in education remember Oregon Trail!
4. Individualized course management programs - Riverdeep has a suite of programs called Destination Reading and Math that integrate into the curriculum by introducing new topics, building new skills, giving immediate feedback and more, all with very little touch typing required.
This list is very brief in nature. I could go on for days.
The question still comes up in our district pretty often about when we teach typing. I typically respond with the same answer...what would you like us to cut out in order to have the time to adequately teach it? I have actually copied the text of the letter I send as a response to my blog if you care to read it. http://historyofeducation.blogspot.com
Andy
An important life skill
Submitted by Cathy Walters (not verified) on April 29, 2008 - 12:21.
Yes, you can use the internet and other types of software in your classes without the kids knowing how to type. But, I still feel that you have to include keyboarding in order to have the "seamless" integration we strive for when using more advanced programs. How do 5th graders and beyond efficiently compose at a keyboard without knowing touch-typing? They are moving back and forth between their thought process to "Where the heck is that M key?" and losing their train of thought. It only takes 15 or so minutes a day and usually an English teacher or L.A. is willing to devote some time to this skill as it changes the kids into more effective writers. If you can't find that time, how about a pilot "keyboarding club" before or after school or even at lunch. I truly believe you would be giving a life skill to your kids--the gift that keeps on giving!
I think this, along with
Submitted by Jeannie (not verified) on February 11, 2008 - 19:30.
I think this, along with physical education, is the most under-taught aspect of the curriculum. We continue to rely on the basal, the science book, the social studies chapters, when there are so many fantastic ways to both teach kids concepts via technology, and ways to connect them through their learning! What an exciting time to be in education. If it weren't for the only having 2 computers in the back of the room, the computer lab that is always shut down, the lack of understanding regarding HOW to use these unique and innovative ideas, we'd almost be ready to introduce children to the global economy in which they live!
Most ignored subjects - technology & PE
Submitted by Rhonda (not verified) on March 9, 2008 - 08:10.
I agree that technology and physical education are the most undertaught subjects in our school district but I am trying to make that not a reality at my school. The greatest challenge is getting the administration to support my endeavors because they are used to technology in the "classroom" but not in the gym. It is an uphill challenge but I did it in my old district and I will do it again.
Marketing
Submitted by Karen (not verified) on February 19, 2008 - 06:24.
I agree with the previous writer. Technology is the way of the future and we do a disservice to our students by not incorporating it in our lessons. Today's kids are so techno savvy they are biting at the bit to use it in classroom. The lack of computers in classrooms presents problems too, hopefully things will change and more computers will be bought so we can keep our kids abreast of the everchanging technology.
I agree
Submitted by Linsey Thomas (not verified) on February 7, 2008 - 19:35.
I agree that having children being able to express their own creativity. Furthermore, technology is very important and used more and more each day and changing rapidly, I lilke that the children have constantly be familiar with the new changes. This will only increase learning.
The ISTE NETS Standards
Submitted by Karissa Miller (not verified) on February 7, 2008 - 12:59.
In order to meet the ISTE NETS Standards I think that educators will need to not only teach technology use to students, but obtain a greater familiarity with technology themselves in order to integrate it into several aspects of learning. With the increasing role of technology today, students need more than just a few lessons on its use; they need to practice using it in various aspects of learning and life. I think this idea of technology integration is extremely important for this purpose, and will help get us away from the idea that technology use can be taught in just a few lessons about it.
Tech intergration
Submitted by Torri Walker (not verified) on February 3, 2008 - 13:12.
Do you think that bring technology in the classroom will deprive the student one on one with the teacher?
Tech Integration
Submitted by Christina Barnett (not verified) on February 4, 2008 - 07:43.
No, I do not think that the stsudents will be deprived of one on one with a teacher. With the technology, they may possibly be more one on one. The students will be able to communicate more also.
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