What should teachers know about technology and its impact on schools? Chapter 7
What is assistive technology?
Helpful tools for students with learning disabilities. It helps by presenting information in a manner best suited to the student's preferred learning style and unique needs.
Discuss technology trends in a least three disciplined areas.
In Book
What is the current situation regarding teacher education/preparing in technology components?
Most states have included technology components as part of their licesnsure requirements.
What is an advantage of laptops and handheld computing devices?
Offer the benefit of achieving a 1:1 ratio at a fraction of the cost of laptops. There are hundreds of apps and websites now being developed for handheld devices.
Name and discuss the five key issues in Educational technology.
1. Questions about infrastructure 2. Budgeting 3. Teacher education 4. Parent support 5. Equity for students
How is the role of the teacher changing as a result of increased use of technology?
1. Teacher as facilitator. 2. Embedding technology in the curriculum 3. Small group instruction 4. Importance of Formative assessment
Explain the typical stages of technology, giving an example of each.
1. Technology is applied to things we already do (powerpoint or keynote) 2. Technology is used to improve upon existing tasks 3. Technology is used to do things that were not possible in the past
What is the current ratio of computers per student in the US?
1:1
What is meant by the term classroom cluster? What is one disadvantage or negative aspect of it?
A cluster is a table or an area of a classroom where three to five computers are available for use at any time by the students in that cluster. One disadvantage is that it requires more of an investment in technology than the other arrangements.
What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of computer labs?
A large display station for the teacher facilitates the demonstration of skills for more effective whole class instruction. (Smart boards) Some disadvantages are not enough classroom space or time to use them.
How can the teacher and students benefit from the single computer classroom?
Although a single computer makes it difficult to use the technology for active instructional tasks, with the addition of a projection system teachers can make rich resources of the internet available for the entire class.
Explain the historical progress of technology in the classroom.
Educational technology is viewed as just another tool that teachers can use, rather than as something that can or should replace the teacher. Technology supports and extends what teachers and students can do in the classroom.
Discuss the forces that are exerting pressure on schools to utilize computers in a bigger way.
Pressure from parents, students, teachers, businesses, and government. (read in book)
What is the difference between productivity tools and cognitive tools?
Productivity tools accomplish tasks more efficiently than if you had to use a typewriter, a calculator, or postal mail. Cognitive tools are used to engage and enhance thinking. (math spreadsheet)
What is the digital divide?
The age gap
