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Computer Technology Technology Integration Technology is a natural, vital tool of the lives of today’s learners. Students are highly motivated by technology, but also want learning activities to be relevant and purposeful. Integrative technology is an approach that allows this to happen. With the support of administration, I have introduced the concept of integrative technology in the four overseas schools at which I have been the Technology Coordinator/Facilitator. |
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 Scientists Care About the Weather by Grade 1 Student - KidPix |
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For an integrative technology approach to be effective the classroom teachers must be actively involved in the planning and implementation process. This helps ensure an authentic connection between the classroom curriculum and utilized technology – skills, hardware, and software. Staff development is provided to teachers (I have found 1:1 and small group to be most effective) in increasing awareness of available, applicable technology and practical application. Visual, concise handouts are made of commonly used programs, complementing my education wiki, resource books and AtomicLearning.com. Teachers come in to the lab with their students or use laptop carts in the classroom, providing curricular reinforcement and receiving direct experience in technology use. I prefer using productivity and creativity software, since they provide the greatest opportunities for authentic learning and individual expression. Software and internet sites that allow for differentiation of learning styles and levels (including EAL learners) is particularly valuable. Learners (teachers and students) are introduced to the skills and basic procedures needed to utilize the software and complete the task. As students work on the activity, additional skills/techniques are introduced – providing enrichment or extra support. I have found this "just in time learning" to be very successful, both for teachers and students. Below is a partial listing of software we have used: |
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Increasingly we have incorporated more Web 2.0 tools |
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Internet Use
The Internet has proved to be of particular importance in international schools, where access to printed resources is limited. United Streaming and BrainPop subscription services enable teachers to find quality video clips targed to curricular concepts. For students doing individual research for their PYP/MYP/DP projects, the internet is invaluable. A Fair Use Policy is in place, requiring student and parent signatures prior to receiving a login account. Finding kid-friendly websites can be challenging, especially for students with limited English skills. Websites deemed appropriate and useful for units are bookmarked by teachers and myself at the school’s iKeepBookmarks.com website, which is accessible at home as well. Some of my favorite sites (and search engines) include Enchanted Learning, BBC Schools, the Thinkfinity suite, KidsClick, and Starfall
Platforms: I have used Windows XP Professional and System 7 at AISC and ISB and the Macintosh platform at previous schools. I own a MacBook Pro and have been a Mac user since 1989. Recognizing a correlation between teacher accessibility of equipment in their classroom and usage, recent budget proposals have emphasized the acquisition of increased hardware (particularly projection) in the classroom.
Hardware initiatives: I have worked on include the following:
- Mobile wireless computer carts for classroom use – AISC, ISB and ACST
- Laptops for Teachers – ISB
- Multimedia carts (wireless laptop, LCD projector, speakers) – ISB
- Piloting and expansion of SmartBoards and DLP projectors (ceiling-mounted) into classrooms
- DLP projectors in every classroom (initially 2) and SmartBoards in about 70% of rooms (initially none) – AISC
- Document cameras as demonstration tool – ISB and AISC
- Significant expansion of number of digital cameras and camcorders
- Expansion of school network/servers, enabling faster login speeds, increased security, school-wide internet and wireless access, more network-based programs, backup
Future Goals/Ideas
New technologies are constantly emerging, with their educational potential beginning to be realized. Some of these items have been limited by current limitations (infrastructure, financial, time) while others I seek to gain more information before implementing.
- Expand role of blogging, Skype, and podcasting for teachers and students, encouraging more interaction between classes and global collaboration..
- Explore role of social networking and collaborative editing in the classroom
- 1:1 laptop initiatives, particularly at middle and high school levels
- Use of iPods and iPads (particularly for ESL and special needs)
http://web.me.com/melissaenderle
Page last updated: June 19, 2011