Teacher Education and 21st Century Skills

Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education: iPad, Tablet, Computer, L...

The history of technology in education

Reflecting on What I Know

Chapter 1 Pg. 3 Reflecting on What I Know

1. Must I use an inquiry-based learning approach in my classroom to use computers as a tool?

Teachers can use the inquiry-based, problem-based, or project-based learning approach in their classroom. These approaches work best in an open-ended learning environment. According to the book Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom, the NTeQ philosophy requires the teacher to assume the role of a facilitator and use computers as a tool to enhance student learning through real world application, which engages the students in their learning.

2. Can I still use tutorials and drill-and-practice software?

Teachers can still use computer based instruction if it is used appropriately. When used appropriately, CBI should scaffold students to solve problems. While scaffolding the teacher  provides the assistance to help students achieve the task at hand. Vygotsky found the theory of social-emotional development (scaffolding and ZPD). According to Saul McLeod and the Simply Psychology website, The zone of proximal development has been defined as "the distance between the actual developmental level as determined by independent problem solving and the level of potential development as determined through problem solving under adult guidance, or in collaboration with more capable peers" (Vygotsky, 1978, p86). This can be found at: http://www.simplypsychology.org/Zone-of-Proximal-Development.html.

3. Won't I have to spend a great deal of time to develop these units of instruction?

It takes time in order to provide the best education possible. Teachers can work collaboratively with other educators (PLC's, internet, and etc.) and adapt their lessons to provide the best technology integrated lesson. 

4. Won't every student need a computer to use it as a tool?

 Not every student needs a computer. In an ideal world every student would have a computer, but with budget cuts that's not possible. The NTeQ philosophy is designed for students to work in collaborative groups and share the computers.

References

Lowther, D. & Morrison, G. (2010). Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom: Skills for the 21st Century. Pearson Education, Inc. Boston, MA. USA.

McLeod, S. A. (2010). Zone of Proximal Development. Retrieved from http://www.simplypsychology.org/Zone-of-Proximal-Development.html



Chapter 3 Pg. 58 Reflecting on What I Know

1. Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?

It is important to learn about different technology tools because it helps the teacher understand the similarities and differences in today’s technological tools. Teachers need to know the basic functions of each technological tool because some tools are better suited for certain lessons than others. Also, teachers need to know more about technology than their students do. For example, if a teacher was teaching a math lesson that required the students to plot and graph, the student would need to use a graphing calculator (mobile device), instead of another technological tool. When teachers know about the different technological tools, they can plan their lesson with the appropriate technology needed to perform a task.

2. Most desktop computers do the same things as mobile devices, so why do teachers need to use both?

Teachers need to use both in order to provide students with the appropriate digital tools in their lessons. Teachers provide enhanced learning opportunities when they provide the correct digital tools for students. Both technological tools have pros and cons. A desktop computer isn't mobile. Mobile devices can be brought with the students if they have to travel to complete an assignment. For example, if the teacher creates a lesson that requires students to travel and take pictures of a building now and compare the building to what it looked like 50 years ago. The students could bring the mobile device (such as a digital camera) with them to take the pictures. While at school, the students could use the desktop to research what the building looked like 50 years ago.

3. How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are often limited in number and scope?

The cost of digital devices can be justified because they help enhance student learning and engagement while learning if it is used appropriately. Teachers use digital devices to help students learn and to provide students with the 21st century skills they need. Students would rather learn by utilizing digital tools to enhance learning than by sitting and listening to teachers lecture. 

References

Lowther, D. & Morrison, G. (2010). Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom: Skills for the 21st Century. Pearson Education, Inc. Boston, MA. USA.

Welcome to the Technology in Education Blogger!

Created for my class EDTC 5010 at ECU!

Welcome! I hope my blog is very informative for everyone that reads it. Technology is very important for educators and students alike. We are now in the 21st century and it is very important to keep up with the newest educational trends and technologies.  Hopefully you will learn something new from my blog. I am new at this, so any ideas or comments will be very helpful. Thanks and enjoy!