(Photo Credit: Google Images)
Technology in classrooms is often a supplement to a lesson and not fully incorporated into the classroom. The article suggests that one way to integrate technology into the classroom is to focus on instructional planning. To match technology with how teachers plan instead of planning around technology. Some of the learning activity types focus on helping students build their knowledge of social studies content, concepts, and processes. There are activities in which students listen to audio files or engage in different simulations, they can also create a timeline, or even complete a review activity. There are many other activities such as creating a diary or even drawing a cartoon.
As a future teacher, I think some of these ideas would be great tools in the classroom to get kids excited about a lesson. I think mixing things up and not always doing the same things every day will keep the kids willing and excited to learn new things. I think that if you allow a child to be creative while learning, it helps them retain it better then just simply reading out of a book. Reading is important too, but it shouldn't be the only way to hear a story.
I think this fits with the ISTE standard number 1, which describes applying existing knowledge to generate new ideas, products or processes. Also to create original works as a means of personal or group expression. Using models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues also fits nicely which is part of standard 1.
Source: Hofer, M. & Harris, J. (Sept./Oct. 2009). Tech Integration in Social Studies. Learning & Leading With Technology, 37(2), 26-28. Retrieved from http://iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading.aspx
I agree with you that technology in the classroom can be a great tool. Social Studies would be a perfect subject to incorporate technolgy into. I think it would be great to go online and take the kids on a virtual field trip to historical sites and create a project out of it. I also believe that if the kids can get engaged in something that is exciting and interesting to them then they will be more likely to remember it.
ReplyDeleteFelicia,
ReplyDeleteI also agree with you that technology is a great tool in the classroom today, especially in social studies. I can remember as a student often feeling bored during social studies because there wasn’t much hands on activities. However, by incorporating online activities or programs the students can see the information another way. I think in today’s society it is crucial that teachers incorporate technology into all types of classroom environments.