In chapter 2, LeBaron outlines successful integration of technology into the curriculum. Two things that stand out are that we need an effective paln for technology as well as the participation of each stakeholder in the process (LeBaron, 2001). We need to each take ownership in the use of technology in the curriculum for it to be successful. Also, we must have a clear set of goals and guidelines in place to maximize effectiveness of technology integration (LeBaron, 2001). Two other major topics discussed by LeBaron include the ideas that we need to use technology appropriately for each curriculum and that we need to assess its effectiveness properly (2001).
In my school there are many techers that fully embrace the use of technology in the classroom. They are teachers of all ages, levels of experience as well as subject area. Luckily, we have a supportive administration as well as a full time computer guru. Many of us, myself included have used technology integration as part of our professional goals.
In Chapter 4, Jarvela uses an appropriate subtitle for establishing success in the long run in terms of technology integration: "Getting the story out" (Jarvela, 2001, p. 43). We need to share our successes with others in our school and the community as a whole. Parents and politicians all need to know how we are teaching and how technology is helping our kids. We must show proof that technology motivates and helps students enhance their learning (Jazrvela, 2001). If we do not share our successes, then we will lose funding for new technologies. We need to enhance and document our constructivist uses of technology, our teaching for understanding and our authentic assessments (Jarvela, 2001). This is a lot easier said than done but we all need to do our part. If we are to gain more tools for our classrooms, we need proof in the form of higher test scores on standardized tests. Unfortunately, this seems to be the only thing that the public seems to look at to measure improvement. So just keep on using technology and document your success. One day, someone in power might just listen to you.
References
Jarvela, S. (2001). Technology and learning: Getting the story out. In Lebaron, J.F. & Collier, C.
Technology in its place: Successful technology infusion in schools. San Francisco, CA:
Jossey-Bass.
LeBaron, J.F. (2001). Curriculum planning for technology rich instruction. In Lebaron, J.F. & Collier, C. Technology in its place: Successful technology infusion in schools. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
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3 comments:
It is nice to be in a school that promotes technology and using it. I know there is a big difference in some schools and even between the local counties, on how they use technology. While it may be a pain to attend a lot of professional development time dealing with technology, it is worth it if you can effectively use the technology with your students. I wonder if there is a way to pull those schools up that are falling behind-without forcing them? I like the ending to your blog, maybe one of us will be in a position to control the budget and we can filter a couple extra bucks to technology development....and if we don't....UMW will probably take our credits away from us!!!
This has been a constant theme thus far – a consistent plan and participation and agreement from all stakeholders. This is necessary for technology to be implemented throughout our schools effectively. I was reading one of our paper critiques and someone mentioned that she has five computers in her classroom but not all of the work. How can we change this? We bounce back to our theme. Now, it is time for the stakeholders to begin setting up a plan and then take action.
It is a lot easier said then done - but each of us needs to take an active role to make it work. It is like anything that we attempt- we must try, provide as much effort, knowledge, and willingness as we can, and then take action.
Kevin,
I think that's great that your school is so supportive of the integration of technology. It must make it much easier to learn and use new programs since other teachers are familiar with them, too. I think that it's definitely beneficial for the students that they're becoming accustomed to using technology to develop and demonstrate their understanding. The school that I am teaching at is just beginning a program that encourages teachers to use technology in their classrooms. Previously, it was available but not many teachers took the time and effort to create lessons that involved technology. Within the past couple of weeks, the school purchased two sets of TurningPoint handhelds so that students are actively engaged in the learning process in their classrooms. Just thought I'd let you know that I think you're lucky to have the technology support and resources that you do.
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