In the article Implementing the Seven Principles: Technology as Lever, Chickering and Ehrman discuss Seven guiding principles when implementing the use of Technology into the classroom and Educational Process.
1. Encourages Contact Between Staff and Students
The frequent the interaction between students and the staff in and out of the classroom, the more motivated and involved some students become. They are more likely to share resources and ideas, especially those who are reluctant to ask questions. The time for response between assignment and questions answered is also dramatically reduced. According to the article, participation and contribution become more equitable and widespread.
2. Develops reciprocity and Cooperation Among Students.
Learning through technology now becomes a collaborative effort. This cooperative style increases learning and deepens understanding. It teaches skills such as problem solving and being able to synthesize large pieces of information.
3. Uses Active Learning Techniques.
The Web-2.0 technologies encourage active learning. The transfer of information and activity has shifted from teacher to student.
4. Gives Prompt Feedback.
It allows both the teacher and the student to identify what they know and don’t know. The technology can also be used to record students writing process/ journey for a budding writer or even help an athlete to look at video and criticize technique.
5. Emphasizes Time on Task.
The technology can save time with editing or have classes via pod casting or video conferencing. It can allow for easy data retrieval.
6. Communicates High Expectations.
When students are expected to deliver excellence, the technology allows the student to feel a level of creativity and accomplishment when their work is published.
7. Respects Diverse Talents and Ways of Learning
Our students come with varied talents and pre-knowledge, the technology caters for their diverse learning styles and allows for dynamic forms of assessment.
There are a few points in this article that are also worth mentioning:
ReplyDelete- we tend to forget that old technologies should not simply be discarded
- the technology used should be appropriate for the instructional strategy
- students themselves should know these principles to guide their behaviour and learning
- professional development for staff and computer lab assistance for students is crucial
Between you and Darrel, I think you have provided us with some excellent tips. We really have to ensure that we understand what we are doing and I'm not just talking about using a blog or wiki. We need to be able to include everyone in this integration process.
ReplyDeleteTo add to your points, I think honestly that if a lesson can be carried out without technology, then it probably should. We must ensure that using the technology does not distract or take away from what we are trying to teach.
Abigail,
ReplyDeleteAn extremely informative, enriching and relevant
article for use in today's learning envioronment. The use of appropriate technology must be encouraged whenever possible in order to motivate our students as well as to ensure that effective learning takes place. As educators, we want to ensure that we encourage cooperative learning among our students, that we promote active learning and that we cater to the diverse learning styles of our learners. Undoubtedly, technology can assist in this regard.