Technology Application Activity Chapter 1

In chapter 1, we read about a Tech-PACK or a TPACK. A TPACK is a program used by teachers that collects data to measure growth in how effectively a teacher can integrate technology into the classroom. This growth measurement shows if a teacher is truly using the technology to teach, or that technology is used ineffectively or not at all. Technology is a very important component to teaching. There are many benefits from the integration of technology from learning to reviewing and reinforcing.

TPACK is measuring a blend of different levels of education.  As shown in the image above, it is truly a three ring circus to combine all of these elements into one powerful element of teaching.

One of the most common ways to measure growth is through a portfolio. The basis of a portfolio is to combine works done over time to show growth in knowledge of an area. E-portfolios are a very common and simple way to combine all types of educational technology.

E-portfilios are fairly aligned with the TPAC integration rubric as shown above.  These portfolios can show lessons, reinforcement tools, and activities that can show progress in these areas.  Through the e-portfolio, a teacher can combine materials as well as lesson plans to explicitly state the elements of alignment with curriculum goals. Not only can this growth be shown in text from through the integration of other standards, a video can be added to show these goals displayed in action. The way technology fits into the lesson can be through an embedded link to the activity or program and through audio feedback from lessons and student interactions with the technology.

My e-portfolio for my class will be able to show growth through the development and use of technological software for presentations and projects. Using new software and building on previously learned skills can be shown through the complexity and flow of the presentation. I will also be able to demonstrate the growth of my technological knowledge through this blog. I will be commenting, sharing my thoughts and thinking to the future about things I can use and skills I can develop. As the blog proceeds to grow, I will demonstrate knowledge growth through deeper reflections and conversations .

Chapter 1:Educational Technology In Context

Technology in classrooms is a new, confusing, overwhelming, incredible, and educational idea. Technology serves many purposes in classrooms from data collection to drill and practice to gaining prior knowledge through videos and interactive experiences. As an introduction to the book and the idea of technology in the classroom, this video sheds some light on the benefits and uses of technology in the class.

Technology allows students to grow, learn, develop ideas, be part of a community of learners, and learn about themselves in the process. Technology goes beyond using a SMART board or a projector in the classroom. Students are immersed in technology and they have so many opportunities to discover and learn everyday.

Chapter one is one step into the world of educational technology. The book describes  technology in education as  a combination of process and tools. There is a process of learning the technology and then using it for its educational purpose. We are lucky to be living in a world that students and teachers are familiar with and use technology on a fairly regular basis.There are many different tools that we have access to that help us learn. Mobile devices, laptops, iPads, and cloud storage are just a few of the tools that are commonly used. Although there are risks and legal issues that may arise, majority of technological work is safe and promotes growth. We even have programs that track growth and provide tips and tools for teachers to support learning.

As incredible as this technology is, we have to remember that technology can't teach as well as a teacher can. Technology should be used to support learning and growth, not provide instruction. Technology is a tool that supports and reinforces learning and provides play to students.

I thought this video was very interesting and wanted to share it. In my class, Teaching With Technology, Dr. Smirnova shared this video. I found it eye opening and amazing that technology has become such an integral part of our lives and will continue to make strides for better, faster, more advanced technology that will support learning at any age.

Happy Teching!

" At this point in my career, I don't need to learn about technology"

How many times have you hear that statement from a veteran teacher? Technology is not a commonly used tool in many classrooms. There are many teachers that feel that their way of teaching could not be enhanced through the use of any technology. With all of the advancements and studies done showing how much more information students process and understand when using technology as an enhancement to instruction, its more shocking to see classrooms without technology.