Technology as Part of the Classroom

What is Classroom Technology? The term technology refers not to simply one type of technology but to a wide range of electronic materials and methods for learning. It can apply to the use of computers in education, but it also can apply to video production and distance learning classes. Each type of technology has different uses and fulfills different learning goals.

Four Major Functions of Technology (Means) TUTOR tool (examples are instructional television, computer- assisted instruction, and intelligent computer-assisted instruction); EXPLORATION tool (examples are CD-ROM encyclopedias, simulations, hypermedia stacks, network search tools); DATA Manipulation tool to CREATE, COMPOSE, STORE, and ANALYZE data (examples are word processing and spreadsheet software, database management programs, graphic software, desktop publishing systems, hypermedia, network search tools, and videotape recording and editing equipment); COMMUNICATE with others (examples are , interactive distance learning).

Technology as Media (Bruce and Levin) Media for INQUIRY (such as data modeling, spreadsheets, access to online databases, access to online observatories and microscopes, and hypertext), Media for COMMUNICATION (such as word processing, , synchronous conferencing, graphics software, simulations, and tutorials), Media for CONSTRUCTION (such as robotics, computer-aided design, and control systems), and Media for EXPRESSION (such as interactive video, animation software, and music composition)

The Classroom Teacher’s Role The classroom teacher must Determine the purpose and outcomes of any learning activity, Decide if technology is an appropriate support/tool for that purpose, Select the technology tools that serve both the “function” and the “media” needed.

Some of the Tools SmartBoard: Interactive Whiteboard

Mobile Technology Tablet PC Handheld Computers

Multimedia Digital Photography Digital Video

So, where will you take your students??