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TEACHING MODULE

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Technology Integration

Welcome

An overview of the GLEF teacher-preparation and professional-development instructional module for technology integration.

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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.

Technology Integration Teaching Module

"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

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:

PDF files can be viewed on a wide variety of platforms -- both as a browser plug-in or a stand-alone application -- with Adobe's free Acrobat Reader® program. Click here to download the latest version of Adobe Reader. To download a free version of the Microsoft® PowerPoint Viewer®, visit Microsoft's Download Center.

Acknowledgements: This module was written by technology integration specialist Marian Shaffner. GLEF extends our thanks to the following people who reviewed this module for content and usability: Dr. Peggy Benton, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, PT3 Grant Director and Advisor, Department of Instructional Technologies, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California; Patsy Lanclos, Apple Distinguished Educator, Smithsonian Laureate, Palm Education Training Coordinator/Provider, Houston, Texas; Mimi Bisson, PT3 Grant Technology Trainer, Department of Instructional Technologies, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, Elaine Wrenn, Technology Coordinator, Echo Horizon School, Culver City, California.

Comments & Responses



Math

My students in grades 7 and 8 are busy exploring sites to help a third and fourth grade group of students learn their multiplication/ division facts. I think I have gained resources from them as well. They have set up games and practice activities in such a short time with the use of their computers.



Technology applications

What I don't understand is why we haven't been far more innovative in the application of technology to education. There are many, many competencies that I can think of that could be developed more effectively by applying the technology used for computer games such as the Wii. We seemed to assume that technology should be an adjunctive to classroom education rather than an alternative freeing teachers up to do more interpersonal elements of education, as well as to focus on critical thinking. Fifteen years ago we developed an interactive instructional module on cost accounting and cost-benefit analysis in authorware that enabled students to learn the concepts by interacting and developing models through input. I can't even begin to imagine the possibilities if we applied today's technology. What better way to teach geometry principles than to have a young person design a building or bridge using design software that teaches concepts related to area, shape, etc. Ask any student why he doesn't like math, and the primary reasons will be that it is boring and that they'll never have to use it. Computer based training is common in industry, but we have hardly touched the surface in education.



Technology applications

I agree with your comment Kirk. Have you taken a look at the web site Math-Kitecture?
http://www.math-kitecture.com/
It is an older web site but still very good and a good example of what you are talking about. I would also like to refer you to Achieve3000. I was retired and asked to work for them as the product is amazing. I have been waiting for it for a long time. It is a web-based, fully differentiated instructional tool that improves students' reading comprehension levels (specifically for non-fiction material), develops reading vocabulary, and improves writing skills. Take a look at KidBiz3000 for grades 2-5 and TeenBiz3000 for grades 6-8 and 9-12 at www.achieve3000.com.



The method of integrating technologies

Hi there,

Wow, there are so many wonderful ideas on the use of technology here!

I wonder has any anyone heard for the learning design project?

Details at this hyperlink:

http://www.learningdesigns.uow.edu.au/project/learn_design.htm

What do you think of this method of integrating technologies into teaching and learning?



I agree with the article

I agree with the article that technolgy can be utilized throughout the education process. It can be used for remedial and extension activities to meet the needs of all students. My school current uses the computers as a testing resource to gain additional data that we use to drive instruction.



Great Resource Site for Teachers

This site, eduTecher.org, is an amazing resource for teachers and students alike. It offers over 500 links to valuable websites and is truly helpful for all educators.



Thank you for sharing! I

Thank you for sharing! I found this site to be very helpful and added it to my favorites!



What A Great Resource!

I agree! I love that it is a one stop 'shopping' site for current articles and resources as well as a blogging site. Brilliant!



Technology Tools

I agree with a lot of the other postings that typing is an important life skill that needs to be taught at an early age.

I wanted to share a technology tool that I started using with my 10th grade Biology students this year. I use the website www.flashcardexchange.com to create review flashcards for my students. The students love being able to study on the computer. After I made the flashcards for the first couple of tests, students were asking "when are you going to post the next test's flashcards?" several days before the test. I was stunned that they were even considering studying before the night before the test!! The site is free (although you do get more tools if you pay a one-time membership fee). I have a link on my teacher web page that takes my students to all of the flashcard sets I have created. I do print out copies of the flashcards for the students who do not have internet access.

I am interested in finding other FREE websites that allow teachers to create online review games or quizzes. Does anyone have any suggestions or experience with these types of sites?



technology help??

My Preschool classes are learning about Brazil and the Tropical Rainforest...it has been so much fun and the children are really intrigued by the information they are learning. I am thrilled that the children are asking questions about how to help save the Rainforest and the animals and plants that are found there....I would love to make a podcast or some sort of video with them stating facts they have learned and ways others can help out too....the issue is I don't know how to go about it with technology...any suggestions or ideas for us????

Thank you!!!

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