Part V: Connection with other key issues
in Educational Technology
Developing Information Literacy, Technology Skills
Information literacy is a part of the digital age. Learning how to sort through information to find what is needed relates almost directly to the mathematical world. There are word problems that contain extra information or information that is not needed. The students must figure out what the question is asking and then use the appropriate information. On the internet and in resource books, students are constantly searching through the information to find what is necessary. While I do not directly include the discussion of extra information word problems, I usually do incorporate them into my lessons. I think they are important because in the real world, we are always given “extra information” and we must sort through it all. Using a smartboard, the students would be able to write on the problem and cross out information not needed and circle what is important. So whether it be an internet search or a word problem on a test, students need to be able to sort through information to determine what is needed and how to use that information correctly.
Meeting the diverse needs of your students, assistive technologies particularly through the idea of
Universal Designs for Learning
My class as a whole would greatly benefit from UDL, I try to incorporate it to my best ability. I try to reduce barrier and enhance opportunities for learning. Many of my lessons involve listening, writing and showing. I do my best to reach out to all types of learning styles. I also use technology to assist my students. Just because they are not technologies that help the blind or deaf does not mean they are not assistive. Any type of technology used to assist a student in learning can be considered an assistive technology. What comes to mind are the websites that talk to you, walk your through a math problem and then allow you to figure it out on your own. The various representations are in compliance with UDL and the website is offering assistance to the student.
Social and ethical uses of technology and healthy practices in the use of educational technology
While I always try my best to give credit when credit is due, I am guilty myself of not always following the rules. However, there are certain rules in the school environment which should be followed on a regular basis. For example, our school just nixed google as a search engine. Therefore, I need to make sure to tell the students that google is not an option when searching. Stating the rules of using the internet and other educational devices should be discussed at the beginning of the year and then revisited throughout the year. Before diving into any type of technology the teacher should review what is and is not appropriate. Even though we are not teaching technology, it is our job to serve as good role models for our students and set up healthy practices when using technology.
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http://keytopicswordpress.com/ I just loved the picture GoogleEarthlings- it was great!
Using technology to facilitate/develop creativity and critical thinking in students
This is probably my greatest struggle. I do not consider myself very creative and I feel that math sometimes limits creativity. However, one idea I have is for students to create their own app for the iPod after looking at others and evaluating them. I will be the first to say that I could incorporate creativity. My MAET course have helped me branch out a bit. I can see using a smartboard to create a class (or small group) storybird or using
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Using technology to engage in
professional development and leadership
Being that I have never used a smartboard in my room before, I can see myself attending either an online or face-to-face professional development to learn more about it. From there, I would be able to bring the knowledge and information back to my school to share with others. My assistant principal has already asked me to create lessons that integrate technology to model for other teachers. I think that creating a unit using technology we currently do not own shows determination (to hopefully get these items) and leader qualities to continually push forward and stay current with technology.