My thoughts on INTRODUCTION TO TECHNOLOGY IN SCHOOLS:

It was a relief to get a firm grasp of what the term “technology” means, particularly as it applies to our students and schools.  It is obvious that a computer is technology, but technology finds it’s way into schools via other means as well.  For example, many of the textbook manufacturers now offer textbooks that include a wealth of technological resources, such as DVD's, lesson plans, online quizzes, tests, drills and exercises. In the future, when I offer a lesson to my students, I will think in terms of what technology I will use to present and deliver it as well as how the student will learn what has been specified in the lesson plans.

Near the top of my list of the most important things covered was the concept of electronic portfolios.  What a wonderful idea this is!  In the case of a K-12 student, it is a record of his/her achievements and something for the parents to view and enjoy. For adult students, the portfolio provides convenience for current or future employers as well as other students or colleagues to examine their work.

I enjoyed the visual aspects of the concept mapping we did in the class and how it demonstrated to me what I know and how it is networked in my mind.  It helps me understand where I placed items/subjects in relation to other items/subjects and represents a roadmap of my ideas. One of the chief benefits of the graphics was the ability to see where the gaps in my thinking were; i.e., if I couldn’t map it, it wasn’t there. I can see the value of using concept mapping to model many of the aspects of a teacher's job:  for seat assignments, lesson planning, fundraising or even talent shows.

Interaction with the other students proved interesting and beneficial. The discussion groups were a refreshing way to see others’ depth of knowledge on various topics as well as their points of view. Interacting with them stimulated me to reevaluate my own perspective.  To be able to see how someone else analyzes an assignment and then executes it was probably one of the most beneficial things I encountered and made me aware of some of my weaknesses.

Our required book, Computers, Curriculum and Cultural Change, was essential and insightful in covering every aspect of technology in the classroom.  Not only was it easy to read but a good reference as well.  Reading it helped create a foundation and springboard for the weekly discussions. I particularly appreciated information regarding inclusion, a subject that can become a very sensitive issue for teachers, students and their parents.  The advice, case studies and web site referrals found in the book are extremely helpful in dealing with students of varying physical ability.  I am making a list of some the resources (including browser bookmarks) featured in the book on many of the subjects covered, and will keep it available for reference.

References:

Provenzo, Eugene F. Jr., and Bret, Arlene. (2005). Computers, Curriculum and Cultural Change, Second Edition.  Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erbaum Associates, Publishers.

ARTIFACTS
Teacher Interview -.rtf (18kb)	TILP -.rtf (21 kb)
Concept Map	Group Discussion -.rtf (7 kb)