Reading Selections:
Integrating Educational Technology Into Teaching
Educational Technology in Context: The Big Picture (pp. 3–32)
Q: In your own words, explain the major pro and con arguments for using educational technology.
A: Pro: Motivation (engaging in high level/real worldly relevant work,) Enhanced instructional methods (AV, cooperative learning, immediate feedback,) Increased productivity (use of hardware and software to cut down on the amount of time it takes to perform tasks, assess students, etc.,) Technological Literacy (tools for the modern work force,) Flexible Learning Environments (ex. on-line classes, virtual classroom,) Distance Learning (access to multiple cultures, peoples to promote tolerance,) Adaptable Assessment (to align with theory of multiple intelligences,) Support for Students with Special Needs (helping them meet high standards of achievement.)
Con: Equity Amongst Races and Cultures ("Digital Divide" coined by Lloyd Morrisett of the Markle Foundation to describe the difference in skills learned due to socio-economic conditions world wide,) Equity Amongst Genders (studies show that white males are still the primary users of ed. tech,) Use of Equipment for Special Needs Students (most is too expensive and hard to use that it goes unused,) Hackers (malicious tampering of equipment or students' private information,) Plagiarism (students have greater access to already printed work which makes the cutting/pasting of such material that much more attractive,) Privacy and Safety (students more readily accessible to on-line predators,) Copyright/Illegal Downloading (making sure that students are legally using the text, audio, and video material they present.)
Q: What are the main issues to consider when using technology?
A: As the pro/con list above shows, there is no question that the use of technology in the classroom can be beneficial to our students on many different levels. However, it is the responsibility of teachers and administrators to make sure that the knowledge is spread equitably, and in a manner that addresses the safety, legal, and ethical pitfalls that student might stumble upon.
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This blog is intended to help inform students about the "goings on" in the HGHS Theatre Dept., as well as provide a forum for students and community members to comment or open dialogue concerning Theatre Co. rehearsals or productions.
