I developed the following activity for one of the educational technology courses I teach. We talk about the below scenarios and questions during the beginning of the semester. I would appreciate hearing your answers to the questions and I’m sure the teachers in the class would find it helpful.
Consider the following scenarios.
A. A teacher keeps attendance and grade records on the computer.
B. Students use concept mapping software to help them organize information for a research paper.
C. A first grade class practices math facts while playing Number Munchers in the computer lab.
D. Students use the classroom computers to check their email and read the news at ESPN.com during their free time.
E. The teacher includes video clips of scientific principles in the real world that can not be easily replicated in the classroom during the lesson.
F. Groups of students work together to produce a podcast (audio) or vidcast (video) in which they critically analyze the events that led to the tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet.
G. The teacher types and prints worksheets for students to complete for homework.
H. Pairs of students develop interactive games related to the Middle Ages using PowerPoint.
Please share your thoughts about these questions.
1. Which of these scenarios are examples of integrating technology with learning and instruction? Provide rationale for your responses.
2. What are some of the characteristics of effective technology integration in educational settings?