As many of you already know, our school's PTA is working hard to raise money for new technology for our classrooms and school. As a teacher, I truly believe today's technology can bring our students new and amazing information and experiences. I would like to encourage all of you to support and join forces with the PTA by assisting in any way you can with their fundraising efforts.
Technology-Related Concerns
Many of you may have concerns about the use of technology in the classroom. I would like to start off by assuring you that the technology that either is currently used, or that we hope to use has all been prepared with every precaution taken to ensure your child's safety. Firewalls have been set up on our school's network, and all students are regularly informed of the dangers of sharing personal information. Internet use is monitored at all times. Another concern that has recently been brought to my attention is the focus on classroom technology taking time and funds away from programs such as art, music, and physical education. It is the goal of our administration and of us teachers to use technology to supplement core curriculum, rather than detract from it. Our PTA is trying to raise additional funds to bring more new types of technology to your students, without taking away from any of our valuable arts and sports programs. Using technology to complete a variety of tasks helps prepare students for the workforce, as they will no doubt be using computers, the internet, and a variety of other forms of technology in their careers.
If you are still not sold on the concept of technology in the classroom, please read on to find out how I plan to incorporate technology use into your child's curriculum.
In teaching, there are two basic types of theories of learning: directed learning and constructivist learning. Of these two types, there are a number of theories that support these ideas.
Directed Learning
One such theory that supports directed learning is the Information-Processing Theory, developed by Atkinson and Shiffrin. Briefly, this theory states that "learning is encoding information into human memory, similar to the way a computer stores information" (Roblyer & Doering, 2010, p. 35). Atkinson and Shiffrin theorize that in order for humans to retain information, the information is received by sensory registers (eyes, ears), makes its way to short term memory, and if repeated and used, gets stored in long term memory. In order for information to be retained, it must be stored in long term memory. The more a person sees a piece of information, or uses this information, the more likely the information will be stored (Roblyer & Doering, 2010). For more information, click the link provided to read about Human Memory: Atkinson-Shiffrin Model.
Constructivist Learning
One of the constructivist learning theorists is Jerome Bruner, whose Discovery Learning theory is briefly described as "learning is cognitive growth through interaction with the environment" (Roblyer & Doering, 2010, p. 39). Bruner believed that students learn through discovery, and are more likely to retain information that they discover for themselves. Bruner also believed that teachers should provide students with opportunities to do experiments and manipulate objects and information on their own (Roblyer & Doering, 2010). For more information on Jerome Bruner's theory, click on the link provided to read about Discovery Learning.
Technological Applications in our Classroom
Although I am fortunate enough to have a computer with internet access at my desk, overall our classroom could really use some technological updates. My wish list for our classroom includes:
- a smartboard (this is like an overhead projector, but it is connected to my desktop and can display web pages, play videos, and has some other cool graphic manipulation capabilities that will help keep students engaged)
- 5 desktop computers with internet access for our own little "computer lab"
In case any of you need further convincing that the types of technology I listed would be beneficial to your students, I have developed an example of a directed learning lesson, as well as a constructivist learning lesson. I'm hoping these examples will help demonstrate the flexibility and capabilities of the resources we're fundraising for.
Directed Learning Lesson
The Information-Processing Theory states that information is received and stored to human memory, in much the same way as computers store information. The more information is used or seen, the more likely students will retain this information. A major part of your child's curriculum this year will be focused on world history. We will be learning about ancient civilizations, as well as their impact on today's society. Much of this lesson will be taught via directed learning, or lecture. With the use of a smartboard, I can include pictures and videos in my lecture. Another way I look forward to incorporating smartboard capabilities into our history lessons this year is by visiting museum websites that offer virtual walkthroughs or access to their collections online. Having access to current exhibitions at the Louvre and the British Museum will help make history come alive for your child.
Constructivist Learning Lesson
The Discovery Learning Theory states that students learn most effectively by discovering information for themselves. Research has found that the Discovery Learning method is most effective when preceded by a more structured lesson with key facts (Roblyer & Doering, 2010). One discovery learning lesson I have prepared involves students using the internet to research a person from history, and writing a biography on this person. Students will first use the internet to research and decide who their biography will be written on, then use additional internet sources as well as our school's library to research the person they have chosen. As a part of this assignment, students will be given a scenario, and asked to include in their project what they believe their person would do in this scenario. This gives students the opportunity to problem solve, and find the information they need to make their predictions.
I hope that the information in this post has provided you with some insight on what your child will be working on this year. I would like to repeat that I strongly encourage you to get involved in the PTA's efforts to raise money for technology in our classrooms. I really believe that in today's society, children should be introduced at a young age to different types of technology, it will help prepare them for success in their adult lives. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post them here. I will be checking this blog often, and would like to be sure you have all the information you need. Thank you for your support in your child's education!
References:
Human memory. Retrieved August 6, 2010, from http://users.ipfw.edu/abbott/120/AtkinsonShifrin.html.
Roblyer, M.D., & Doering, A.H. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching. (5th edition). Boston: Pearson.
Tomei, Dr. L. (2004). Learning theories - A primer exercise. Retrieved August 6, 2010, from http://academics.rmu.edu/~tomei/ed711psy/c_bruner.htm.
Disclaimer: This blog is an assignment for an educational technology course at National University. It is not a real fundraising blog.
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