Technology in the Classroom?

Technology is such a dominant part of our lives these days. The question, however, is can technology get in the way of teaching and learning?

This Aint Your Mama's Powerpoint! on Prezi

About Us

For more information on the creators of this blog see our individual profiles on the right.

Best of Blogs

1. Provides a comprehensive way of viewing information over a long period of time.
2. Easy way to access all sorts of media.
3. It can be used by everyone, students can contribute via comments.
4. It can be accessed anywhere.
5. Appeals to students who are motivated by technology.
6. Helps students who may miss class keep up with the class.
7. Use as a supplement to instruction rather than an independent instructional method.
8. Use as a communication tool between students, teachers, and parents.
9. Choose colors and designs that make it visually appealing.
10. Utilize the censorship tool to supervise what is posted on the blog.

Techniques for using a Webquest.

Tips for using a Webquest for teaching.

Make sure there is a clear objective.
Find at least 10 websites.
Use a variety of websites.
Write detailed notes that associate with each website.
Make it easy to read.
Break up the text with visuals.
Double check links for access the day of instruction.
Use an answer key.
Incorporate theory of Blooms Taxonomy of difficulty.
Have an introduction and a conclusion.

Webquest: La historía de Simón Bolívar y Manuela Sáenz

Webquest

View more documents from lauralaprofesora

Prezi Example

Math on Prezi

Prezi Methods

Choose colors in the beginning.
Use already prepared templates.
Be careful with paths. Do not make them to full of movement.
Finish with an overall view of the prezi.
Overall concept maps.
Beneficial for going into detail on certain subjects.
Very easily integrate multimedia.
Easy mobility from preparation to presentation.

Quadratic Formula Presentation

Quadratic formula 2

View more presentations from laurenschmitt12.

Helpful Rules and Methods for Using Power Point

1. Keep it simple, concise
2. 4-5 points per page maximum
3.  Use relevant images to evoke emotion
4.  Use at least a 32 pt. font so that the back row can see
5.  If you use video, check to make sure it is audible
6.  Don't overuse Power Point
7.  Limit to under 10 slides
8.  Make sure font color contrasts from background color
9.  If there is a time limit, practice with timer
10.  When using videos, embed into Power Point

Using Inspiration

(example of Inspiration)

Teacher Use of Inspiration

1.      Involve/ask students for participation

2.      Color-coded

3.      Review for chapter; test reviews; writing a paper

4.      Use long term over a period of time with links

5.      Keep in mind the students’ age.

Teaching Students how to use Inspiration

1.      What is the goal to use this program? What information are you trying to pass on?

2.      Teaching organizational skills.

3.      Process, steps (ie. Solving math problems, or showing different ways to do it.)

4.      Test review in small groups as an option for assessment

5.      Limit use and use it more supplemental

School Technology Survey

Schools Visited:

Laura- West High School

Evany- William Penn Elementary School

Camille- Hillcrest High School

Lauren- Park City High School

Commonalities between Surveys:

·         Availability of technology in schools varies depending on funding, while use of technology in instruction varies according to teacher choice.

·         While funding has an influence, districts appear to have specific goals and priorities related to technology use.

·         Most rooms have 1-5 computers (at least one teacher computer) with labs or laptop carts available for use.

·         Schools have more PCs than Macs, although some schools have both.

·         All schools have LCD projectors in each classroom.

·         All teachers use Microsoft Office or Pages.

·         Most teachers use Internet in instruction.

·         Some teachers have programs specific to subject, ie: math program or English program.

Differences between Surveys:

·         Dramatic differences in technologies depending on socioeconomic status of school population and surrounding neighborhoods.

·         Park City School District is Mac-based, while Salt Lake district schools are PC-based.

·         Some schools have document cameras, others do not.

·         Some classrooms have Smartboards, some do not.

·         Students with computers at home varies by school, from 60-100%.

·         Opportunities for teacher technology training depends on district.