Technology as a Tool
I have just read an article by Lynne Schrum (2005) on “Technology as a Tool to Support Instruction” http://www.educationworld.com/a_tech/tech/tech004.shtml.
I would like to summarize the main points in the article.
She explains that in order to look at technology as a tool for the classroom we need to look at two points that need to be considered.
1. “Technology is a tool that can change the nature of learning”:before we are able to implement project- based and multidisciplinary lessons, she goes on to say that exploration needs to be valued in our classroom in both teaching and learning, as technology lends itself to exploration.
2. “Teachers must determine how technology tools are used, and they must have a hand in designing the staff development process that trains them.”
Schrum (2005)is calling on all teachers to take responsibility for helping design staff development process to meet teacher- student needs, to include time to practice using the equipment, to watch teachers model lessons that infuse technology into the curriculum, and to mentor other teachers.
Schrum (2005) adds that teachers must educate themselves on how to best use these tools to enhance teaching and learning.
So if I look at it from the view of, what can I as a student teacher do to prepare for my classroom and professional development, I must overcome the fear of technology by exploring all aspects of useful software and sites to become a wizard in info technology and to respect and enjoy the act of exploration.
