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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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Great Resource Site for Teachers
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on May 27, 2008 - 09:13.
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.
What A Great Resource!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on May 28, 2008 - 04:08.
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
Submitted by Kim Pauls (not verified) on May 25, 2008 - 17:58.
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?
A great vocabulary Web site
Submitted by Jennifer Barnett (not verified) on June 22, 2008 - 19:24.
Try using www.quizlet.com. You will love this great vocabulary site if you like the flash card site. Quizlet was created by a 17 yr. old for learning vocabulary the ways kids learn today. The games, practice quizzes and tests, and the sharing features make it one of my favorites!
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
I could not agreee with you
Submitted by Karen Kurtz (not verified) on May 20, 2008 - 04:57.
I could not agreee with you more. Students definately need to be taught the proper way to type before technology is integrated. I also feel this should be from a certified business teacher not the english teacher or the librarian.
Only by a certified business teacher?
Submitted by Tracey (not verified) on June 13, 2008 - 08:15.
I don't know of any elementary schools that employ certified business teachers to teach keyboarding. And, of course by the time students reach the secondary level they've developed terrible keyboarding habits. As a teacher/library media specialist, I introduce keyboarding knowledge in kindergarten by teaching students that there is a left side and a right side of the keyboard. The right hand is used for letters/number on the right side, the left hand for the left side. I use a permanent marker (black or silver) to draw a line on the keyboards of all 26 computers in my room to separate the two. They pick it up quickly. This way they don't develop the hunt and peck method before official keyboarding instruction begins in third grade. It makes a world of difference.
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
To Teach, or Not?
Submitted by Beth S (not verified) on May 26, 2008 - 13:42.
This is indeed a burning question. I teach third grade. I see children hunting and pecking. I have wondered when typing skills are taught--if ever. I am grateful to have had typing--two years--in high school. I am not comfortable with typing numbers--at top or on number key pad. I manage; I have adapted. I agree with you that we become as productive and/or fast as is needed. Your letter (http://historyofeducation.blogspot.com) made me realize that the importance of using technology as a tool outweighs learning correct keyboarding skills. (I am amazed at how quickly children can text message. I cannot compete.)
Computer time is precious--often limited--due to inadequate resources. In our classroom, my 20 students and I share three computers. The students get one forty-five minute lab period each week--so that is about 30 minutes weekly and about 18 hours a year. There is no time for keyboarding skills.
You clearly dissect the questions. Truly, where is the time needed to teach keyboarding? What can we give up, at which educational level, in order to teach this skill? There is no easy solution.
That is good advice to use software like Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing or other at http://www.google.com/Top/Computers/Software/Educational/Typing/. I had used the Mavis software on an older computer (not on the network), but alas it died. Even with limited time, my students enjoyed being able to "play" (their word) and learn keyboarding skills. Thank you for giving other options for parents and educators.
Beth
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!
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