Technology Integration in the Classroom

Is There Only One Way to Make it Effective?

Summary

Integrating technology into the classroom is not a new topic. Teachers have been doing this for quite some time now. The question is not should it be integrated, but how should it be. There are two main approaches for technology integration and those are: directed instruction and constructivism. Integrating technology into the classroom using the directed approach comes from the ideas of Skinner and other behaviorist who view the teachers job as modifying the behavior of students through positive reinforcement. This method works when it comes to memory and storage processes but it has its draw backs dealing with problem solving and sometimes these types of activities leave the students unmotivated.The second approach is constructivism which deals with how our minds create knowledge. This approach allows the students to discover the information instead of mimic the information being given to them. This theory is based on the work of Piaget. Within the field of educational computing is man named Papert. Instead of constructivism, Papert uses the term "constructionism" which means that he thinks children will do their best by fishing for themselves the knowledge they need. This approach focuses on the idea to teach in a way that produces the most learning with the least amount of teaching. The two main teaching methods have been displayed, but which method is best for integrating technology into the classroom? The fact is that there is no right or wrong answer. Each teacher must not be so ideological, dogmatic, and exclusionary in their view of education. The teacher may receive hardware, software, and other materials to integrate technology into their classroom that does not fit their preconceived ideas of how to educate, but  the teacher must be flexible when it comes to using technology in the classroom.

Reflection

I believe that technology not only has a place in the classroom, but must be integrated into the classroom. The article made some good points. I liked how it mentioned the two main areas of approach: directed instruction and constructivism. I believe that both types of instruction have a place when it comes to teaching through technology. If i had to choose one over the other however, i would choose constructivism. I believe, especially with technology, the students will learn best when they are making their own experiences and finding the information out for themselves. This is a good method of teaching regardless, but using it with technology tools only makes it better. With the proper supervision and the proper tools, students can use technology to teach themselves so many different things in so many different areas of study. I agree with the end of the article as well however. Even though I feel it would be best go with the second approach I acknowledge that the educator must be flexible when it comes to using technology in the classroom. I may have many ideas on how to use the technology I receive in my classroom, but if the tools I receive do not fit by style of teaching, I must still find a way to integrate it into my class.

 

Whales - Extra Credit

Hello parents. It has been such a great week and the weekend has finally arrived! We have been studying about whales all week long and the students have absolutely enjoyed it. They have learned all about what whales are, where they live, all the different species, their diets, and much more. The students will be taking a test on Monday over all the fun and exciting information they have learned about these wonderful creatures. I just wanted to make sure to remind all of you of this so that you can help your child study and do great on the test!

The last piece of information I want to inform you about is that there will be extra credit at the end of the test. On Netflix there is a documentary called Blackfish. I have asked all the students to let me know if they have Netflix. The students that said they do not, I gave them a copy of the documentary. I would love it if you all would sit down and spend some time with your child and watch this documentary. Again, this is just for extra credit, so if you do not have time to do so it is OK! It is a great documentary and there will be just a few extra credit questions on the test over it. I hope this can be, not only fun for the family, but educational as well.

Thank you,
Mr. Sims