What is Meaningful Technology?

In today’s society, it can be agreed upon that integrating technology into the classroom is imperative. In order to make technology integration meaningful to students, educators need to use technology to enhance the content already being taught, not use it as a separate entity. Technology allows students to not only connect with their classmates but also students from different parts of the world. If technology is being used in the most effective manner in the classroom, it not only benefits students but teachers as well.

In her blog, Mary Hertz states that educators shouldn’t assume students know how to use technology to create quality work or deepen their understanding of the material. Many students do not have the opportunity or access to various modes of technology at home. This is why it is important for teachers to allow their students to explore the various tools during guided practice. During this guided practice time students are also afforded the opportunity to become a digital citizen and learn the responsibilities and safe practices when using technology (ISTE). As mentioned earlier students need to gain a deeper understanding of the material in order for the use of technology to be meaningful. When interacting on Facebook about whether technology increased student learning, it was agreed upon that it allowed students a wide range of resources to help guide and support students. These opinions are backed up by extensive research. A study published in the Journal of Research on Technology in Education found when teachers used technology they were able to access a wider range of resources, keep content current and provide more depth to their lessons. This in turn, allows students to actively engage with the material and provide more meaning to what they are learning in the classroom. Technology also allows students to take the work they produce and share it with the world, which in turn increases the ownership and sense of pride they have for their work (Bassett et. al). Students connecting with others outside of their classroom also achieve the ISTE standard of being a global collaborator.

A common concern of implementing technology into a classroom is how it will affect the teachers’ role. It is shown that integrating technology coupled with traditional face-to-face teaching produces better academic outcomes than employing either technique alone (Introduction to Technology Integration).  Implementing technology shifts the teachers’ role to that of a facilitator allowing for the teacher to work alongside their students.  Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy describes how technology can create a greater level of differentiation allowing the teacher to cater to the specific needs of students (Introduction to Technology Integration?).

           Technology integration is using whatever tools and resources you may have in the classroom. To make that meaningful to students means to allow them to utilize various tools to complete and create work that shows a deep understanding of the content.  Meaningful technology integration also allows teachers to seek out resources that help keep the content current and engaging for their students.

PERSONAL REFLECTION

Thoughts on integrating technology into the classroom

I believe integrating technology into the classroom is vital in todays’ education setting.  Technology allows students to take the material they have been taught and gain a deeper understanding from enhanced exploration. Technology also allows for a greater differentiation making it easier for students to move at their own pace and get what they need in order to be successful. From a teachers standpoint technology streamlines a lot of the grading, planning, and management that needs to be done. Integrating technology into the classroom also makes it easier for teachers to maintain the connection with parents.

How might I use technology in the classroom

I want to incorporate a lot of technology in my classroom. I really think math or reading apps/ programs are beneficial to students. In my personal experience I find students get more excited about the material when they know they can use the computer. I also want to use a web-based program like ClassDojo for classroom management and as a way to remain in contact with parents. While I want to use technology as much as possible in my classroom I chose these specific ways because I have seen them used before and are successful.

How might it benefit students/ parents

The school to home connection is vital to the success of students. Keeping in contact with parents through technology is easy and efficient for both the parents and teacher. It allows for communication to occur at convenient times, and is another way to share students’ work with out calling a face-to-face meeting. Technology is beneficial to students because it opens up the resources that are available to them. It also forces students to gain a deeper understanding of the material.

When or why I wouldn’t use technology/ barriers that exist

I wouldn’t use technology as something to fill the time, for example show a movie or have students play a computer game because you don’t know what to do with the time. I also wouldn’t use technology without trying it out for myself first. One of the biggest barriers that exist with technology is knowing how to properly use it. Another barrier and important aspect to consider as a teacher when using technology is a students and family’s access to technology and other resources in their home. 

http://www.wordclouds.com

Video: An Introduction to Technology Integration

Social Media Interaction:

Sources Cited

An Introduction to Technology Integration. Edutopia, n.d. Web. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d59eG1_Tt-Q

Facebook Post

https://www.facebook.com/megan.rollings.3/posts/10155149114897090

Hertz, Mary. "What Does "Technology Integration" Mean?" Blog post. Edutopia. N.p., n.d. Web. https://www.edutopia.org/blog/meaning-tech-integration-elementary-mary-beth-hertz.

"ISTE Standards FORSTUDENTS." For Students 2016. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Apr. 2017. https://www.iste.org/standards/standards/for-students-2016.

McKnight, K, O'Malley, K, Ruzic, R, Horsley, M, Franey, J & Bassett, K. (2016) Teaching in a Digital Age: How Educators Use Technology to Improve Student Learning, Journal of Research on Technology in Education, 48:3, 194-211.