Before beginning this
class I had no idea just how far technology integration into the classroom
could go. I think it would be safe to say that I was very technologically naïve!
At the beginning of this class I thought of technology integration as just
having computers available to students to use in the classroom. I now understand
all of the tools available (Web 2.0!) to allow students to interact and engage
in their learning using technology. My thoughts about technology integration
have changed in that I now understand that technology is a tool that most all
students in today’s classrooms know how to use. When teachers can incorporate technology
into the classroom it allows students to explore and become active participants
in their own learning experience!
Being able to use technology
to meet state standards allows teachers the opportunity to differentiate their
teaching style to meet the many learning needs of their students. We all know
that our students are not “cookie cutter” learners; they each learn and
understand in their own unique way. If we can use technology to create programs
or utilize games that would teach the same concept, but present the material in
a new way, why not? We live in a world where each state assesses its students
using standardized tests. Many times our students are just taught to pass a
test. Isn’t it more important to
understand and know the material being taught rather than just memorize it to
pass a test? Technology integration allows for a better understanding.
My thinking about
technology in the classroom has changed because I now understand how
interactive technology can be and how much it allows for differentiation. I had
no idea that about WebQuests, using blogs, Pod Casts, etc. Honestly, my ideas
of technology integration were limited to Power Points and the occasional
YouTube video. Seeing and understanding that students can take a very active
role and even work together using technology allows me to better understand the
importance of “speaking the language” that our digital native learns speak and
incorporating technology, as much as possible, into the curriculum and lessons.
One
of the biggest concepts from this class that I am taking with me is the
practice of Student-Centered Learning and the idea of Universal Design in the classroom.
Allowing students to take control of their learning only allows that student to
gain better knowledge of content and really take an interest in what they are
learning, not just learn (memorize) to pass a test. I have learned that
technology only works to aid teachers when it comes to meeting the many learning
need of their students. Technology allows students to work at their own pace
and challenge themselves appropriately while all still gaining the same ideas
and skill sets.
