Instructional video available on the Projects Page
Frameworks: Scaffolding Successful Ed Tech Dispositions
Weekly Overview
This week provides us with our foundation for the rest of the semester, starting with a collection of frameworks we can use to philosophically engage our planning for technology integration in the classroom. These frameworks for thinking - TPACK, SAMR and the TRIPLE E are exactly that – ways of thinking about digital technology in the classroom. Each is its own unique way of thinking, while at the same time being compatible with the others, blending for meaningful learning in the classroom.
However: There is no easy solution or magic bullet that will make technology perfectly integrated; it requires deep reflective thought that starts with how you view the classroom - we keep in mind the importance of putting learning first, and technology second – the technology must never be the first thing we consider, instead it should be used as an emergent tool that - when in the hands of students - allows them to discover, construct, and express knowledge and skills as they have learned.
Consider Dewey’s perspective here - begin with your content (subject matter) – there is no actual separation between what you teach and how you teach it, the best way to teach something is emergent from the actual content itself. After we have considered content, and the best way to learn that content in an educational experience we have created as teachers, we then consider technology – is there a digital tool that will enhance this learning experience? What tool can help students learn more meaningfully?
At the heart of this week, you should be considering your own philosophy of education, and how technology fits within it – not as a Post-It note tacked on to the side, but as a fully organic entity emerging from within your experience and forward thinking. How do you answer the questions: What is Good Teaching? What is Good Learning? What is Worth Knowing? Who is the Educated Person? What is the Purpose of School?
The assessment this week is to complete the Conversation Post, complete the Class Activity, and begin to think about your Project One - digitally expressing and communicating the learning environment of your classroom. What is your educational philosophy, and what should students, parents and perhaps other teachers know about your pedagogical approach and what you think is important in the classroom?
Learning Objectives
After the successful completion of this module, students will:
Reflect on previous experience and ultimately develop a working definition of educational technology
Explore technology frameworks SAMR and TPACK, and apply each to existing ideas about teaching
Utilize online graphics programs to express understanding of weekly course content
Understand the course expectations, projects and outcomes.
Select and engage a Framework for their own contextual situation/career orientation
Week 1 Video
CONTENT READINGS
The readings for this week introduce us to two frameworks and a question. As you read, consider how you have used technology in the classroom yourself as both as student and a teacher, and how you believe those in charge understood what it is they were doing with technology. What was the purpose? How is Educational Technology Defined? Please click the links below to download and read each article in order to complete the weekly class activity.
A base for thinking about the integration of digital tools with a focus on Content and Pedagogy and Technology as overlapping conceptual understandings and knowledge.
A continuum view of using digital technology in the classroom with a focus on what technology does with the lesson.
An article examining issues with a lack of critical considerations of race in modern schools
A question: How does Race intersect with Technology in the modern school system, and what is/what should be done to address the issues that arise?
Content Videos
TPCK
SAMR
21st Century Learning