Wednesday, February 29, 2012

These are some things to consider in technology-integrated education.


 Safe, legal, and ethical use of digital information and technology

o   In the words of Stan Lee, “With great power, comes great responsibility.” As an educator, one must be aware of the potential negative and positive effects his or her educational technology integrations may have. In all technology applications one must consider how it could affect the student, the class, the school, the community, the city, the state, the country, and even the world, because technology connects them all. This includes but is certainly not limited to, obeying copyright laws and using proper references. Most importantly, teachers must consistently utilize technology in appropriate ways that never cause intentional or unintentional harm to others.

·        Digital etiquette and responsible social interactions

o   According to Brain Pop, “Digital etiquette, or netiquette, is a set of rules for how to behave online.” Basically, manners and expectations in face-to-face social interactions carry over into our digital world. This includes addressing individuals and groups properly, saying please and thank you, and using proper grammar and punctuation. Respectful and clear communication must be maintained at all times.

·        Meeting diverse needs of learners through learner-centered strategies and equitable access

o   Teachers can utilize differentiated instruction to appropriately adapt to the needs and interests of their students. An easy way for educators to collect and organize this important information from individual learners, is by creating user-friendly electronic tests and surveys. This can help to create a highly effective student-centered learning environment.
o   I firmly agree with the National Equity Project that, “Every child has the right to a quality education.” Part of this quality education for all, is equitable technology access.
o   The Northwest Educational Technology Consortium provides helpful tools for teachers to improve and maintain equitable technology access in their schools and communities.

·        Global awareness and digital age communication

o   Integrating technology into the curriculum can help students develop global awareness. Students can research news from other countries or communicate and develop relationships with students in other regions of the world.
o   Digital age communication comes in many forms. Some examples include social networking sites like Facebook or Google+, and video chat programs like Skype. Each of these examples and many more, offer users the opportunity to communicate in an easy, entertaining, and efficient manner.
o   Many of the easily accessed forms of online communication may not be appropriate for students. As an educator, one must conduct research, talk to parents, and consistently follow policy.
o   Teachers must carefully select and continually monitor the ways students will share and receive digital information. 
o   Champaign Schools provides useful information and ready to use lessons on Internet safety.


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