Integrating technology involves more than incorporating
tools into instruction. It also
involves engaging students. According
to the article, How to Integrate Technology, the first step will require you
to change your approach to teaching.
The teacher will no longer be the focus of attention. The dynamics of the classroom will
change. One of the hindrances to
technology integration is limited computer access. One may think it will be
difficult to integrate technology with one computer. Even though you may have
one computer, you can still create lessons that didn’t exist before. This
results in a student-centered learning environment. The article gives various educational websites that can be used with
different technologies.
Why Blog?
An instructor who uses blogs in her English course details
why it is beneficial to her course.
According to the article, Rationale for Educational Blogging, it teaches
students how to write for a public audience and read effectively. Students will be engaging media and need to
know how to navigate the web in the Digital Age. Students will be able to connect and relate to the content discussed rather
than see it simply as facts to be learned.
There are various
Web 2.0 tools that can enhance instruction. I have asked students to work in teams
to create multimedia presentations, but never a blog. This course has showed me how the use of blogs can enhance instruction. It promotes collaboration as
well as exploration. It also gives students a voice. Teachers should incorporate more Web 2.0 technologies to prepare
students to function in the 21st Century. Working collaboratively as well as using technology is a skill that
will be required in the work force. To see a list of tools to enhance learning, visit 11 Tools for the 21st Century Learner.
