Takeway Tech Tools
During my recent graduate
course, MAT 675 Integrating Multimedia, I read the book Integrating
Technology in the Classroom, by Boni Hamilton. One of the chapters that
I really enjoyed and learned a lot from was, Chapter 3 “Paths to Technology Integration.”
This chapter discusses how
technology can help further understanding of curriculum using digital tools. Integrating
technology in the classroom should begin in small steps. “Begin with short,
simple ideas that can build flexibility and confidence, particularly if you are
a novice with instructional technology,” (Hamilton, pg. 36.)
In addition, the author
also discusses that there are many great tools but limited time to learn about
them. She goes on to state that it is important to “help students get past the novelty
of new tools by implementing one new tool per grade level in your school. Each
grade level can concentrate on one new tool, allowing students to become experts
with it. With tool mastery, they will pay more attention to the content of
their project than to the glitz of the tool,” (Hamilton, pg. 37.) I think that
is an exciting idea because students learn and build a variety of technological
tools in which they will become experts at using.
Integration Approach:
In
this section of the chapter, the author discusses that teachers will integrate
technology in to their classrooms by beginning with “tools that best fit their
styles, classroom contexts, level of confidence, and students’ abilities” (Hamilton,
pg.39.) The author also goes on to say that no teacher is an expert in all
technology so it is important to start with tools that best meet your needs. In
addition, it is also important to concentrate on what the students need to know
or what they should be able to accomplish by the end of the lesson or unit.
Types of Integration Approaches:
In this section of the
chapter, the author discusses various ways to integrate technology in to the
classroom. Below are some of the suggestions:
- Instructional Uses:
“For
some teachers, the easiest entry to using technology is to model it first as an
instructional tool and then advance to student demonstrations with technology”
(Hamilton, pg. 43.) This type of integration has low level risk and can stretch
students thinking. However, this type of integration can also sometimes
frustrate students.
- Software and Websites:
Often
viewed as the safest way to monitor students while they are on the computer and
combining technology in teaching. In addition, there are several interactive
educational websites for teachers and students to enhance learning.
- Noncomputer Tools:
Noncomputer
tools are digital cameras, video camera or audio recorders. Many teachers start
their students out using these types of tools before introducing their students
to computer tools.
- Teacher-Directed Projects:
Teacher-Directed
Projects are simply that, teacher-directed. They include, drawing on the
computer, making slideshows (with a program template), and are scaffolded for
future in-depth projects.
- Web 2.0 Tools:
Web
2.0 tools are internet-based tools that allow students to be a consumer and
producer of information. Students are able to create content (such as blogs,
wikis, etc.) and publish it. In addition, students are able to collaborate with
others in the classroom and around the world.
- Technology Centers:
These
centers are typically content-based while incorporating digital tools. “The
advantage of classroom technology centers are that teachers can easily promote
equitable access with limited access to technology, involve all students in
using digital tools every day, support ongoing projects, and place students in
charge of their own work,” (Hamilton, pg.45.)
- Collaboration with Colleagues:
Often
times teachers will work together to plan for, implement, and evaluate
technology use. “Collaborations divide the work and time spent on tasks while increasing
teachers technology capacities, “(Hamilton, pg. 52.)
- Project-Based Learning:
In
PBL, students investigate and respond to a complex question or challenge. Students
research, consult, and develop ways to convey their answers to their peers.
As
you can see this chapter had a lot of useful information on the various paths to
technology integrations. How you choice to integrate technology in your
classroom is entirely up to you. I hope you found this information useful and I
hope that it helps you to integrate new technology in your own classroom.
Best Regards,
Julie Love
References:
Hamilton, B. (2015). Integrating technology in the
classroom: Tools to meet the needs of every student. Eugene, OR: International
Society for Technology in Education.
