Technology in the
classroom is nothing new. Although technology in the classroom has been around
for many years it is rapidly changing. Technology is readily available to
everyone in many different forms and as various tools. Our students are
surrounded by technology and experience it as part of their everyday lives. As
librarians and teachers we have to be aware of the new technology tools
available because our students probably are already using these tools.
Most schools use
textbooks as their source of information. while this has been the acceptable
norm for years, the Internet provides up to date information in the form of virtual
textbooks. Science is one core subject that has diverse websites readily
available with current information. Virtual science textbook websites offer
animation that bring the concepts to life and make the learning easier for the
students. Learners hear the vocabulary while watching the concept appear on the
monitor. Images can be labeled clearly, magnified, and may also be available as
3D models. A valuable feature of using websites to make concepts clearer is the
ability for students to learn at their own pace and the teacher’s capability to
choose websites that enhance the concepts being taught in the classroom. When
using a textbook the lesson is one size fits all. A website or cluster of
websites promotes differentiated learning for all learners while instilling a
higher level of vocabulary at times and benefiting literacy. If the learning is
engaging, the student will tend to understand more and be able to explain the
concept using a higher level of vocabulary and understanding. This will also
promote long-lasting knowledge of the concept being taught.
Another way to
incorporate technology in the classroom or library is through podcasts. Podcasts
allow students to view lesson they may have missed, take an assessment, or
review a concept they are struggling with. Teachers, librarians, or students
may all create podcasts to aid in the learning of the class. Windows Movie
Maker or iMovie are programs that are available to create podcasts. Students
can view the lessons at any time and in any place. Podcasts can be used to flip
a lesson, teach a concept, review a concept to fill in any gaps, and assess a
concept. While these lessons are primarily made to view individually, they are
also invaluable in small group or whole class to clarify any misconceptions.
Digital files are a valuable resource to access a concept now or later.
Now that students
have learned all about a concept, presentation software is a novel way for
students to present their new learning. Written reports of the past are now
being replaced with online projects that can be as entertaining as they are
educational. Students are motivated by using technology and are more apt to
investigate a little deeper if they are aware that the final presentation will
be digital. Some user-friendly presentation tools are PowerPoint, Keynote,
Glogster, and Prezi. These tools offer a variety of ways to make the
information more like polished web pages.
As a classroom
teacher or librarian, two technologies that would be very useful are remote
polling devices for assessment and presentation software for motivating
students. Remote polling devices, also known as clickers, are empowering to
students in some cases. The clicker allows the students to remain anonymous to
each other while instantly feeling excited about correctly answering a
question. Using the clickers help to view misconceptions on the spot and
clarify them quickly. This form of assessment is useful for reviewing concepts
and formative assessments. Some states provide achievement evaluation questions
in the remote polling format, which can be invaluable in high stakes testing
states. Remote polling engages all students and is a time saver for educators.
Using presentation software can be a great motivator for students. Knowing
ahead of time that they will be presenting to their peers can prompt the
student to research more to be able to present knowledge to their class. They
can let their creativity and skills shine and are proud of what they have
created. Digital presentations can also be used as tools to better themselves
and their next project. Technology is rapidly changing and so are the ways to
better our students’ learning and enhance their technological skills.
Reference
Boles, S. R. (2011). Using technology in the classroom. Science Scope, 34(9), 39-43. Retrieved from
http://search.proquest.com/docview/872797272?
No comments:
Post a Comment