Technology+Integtation

Alyson Fletcher  EDT 3010  June 15th, 2010  Technology Integration

I chose the video clip “NASA Resources Enrich STEM Curricula at Forest Lake Elementary”. The reason why I chose this particular clip was because I was impressed to see such a large, well known organization like NASA to be involved so much in a school program. I did learn from the video clip though, that Forest Lake Elementary in Columbia, South Carolina, is one in 150 schools that participate in this program. The NASA program, known as the NASA Explorer Schools program provides the schools with curriculum materials and funding to help enrich that particular schools math, science and technology programs. This program provides some technology to the classrooms like video conferencing, where the students can actually talk face to face with employees that work for NASA. NASA’s main objective in this program is to influence educators to create 21st century learners, where students are educated in mathematical and scientific aspects of technology. NASA also provides free curriculum materials on their website for schools or teachers that are interested, who are not one of the participating schools. Technology plays such a large part in the world today that it is so important to incorporate technology in the classroom as much as possible. Technology integration in the classroom is also important because it provides educators with many possible ways to teach students considering most students learn differently. Technology integration in the classroom is becoming very important. A new cell phone, computer or website arrives daily so it’s imperative for educators to integrate technology in the classroom as much as possible because our world is so technology driven. It is also necessary for educators to be knowledgeable about technology, what technology is available and what would be useful in the classroom. Unfortunately, not all schools have the necessary funding to provide teachers and students with the computers or smart boards that essential to technology integration in the classroom. That is why I feel an educator should try and provide ways for students to use technology in the classroom by any means necessary. If the school is fortunate enough to be able to provide technologies for the classroom I believe all teachers need to be trained how to use those technologies. If all teachers are somewhat knowledgeable about what resources they have in their classrooms, it is that much easier for students to learn about these technologies and know how to use them to their advantage in enhancing and furthering their educations. In the articles provided for this assignment, it was said that the younger students are around technology and taught how to use it, the more likely the student was able to perform well independently. I plan on integrating technology into my classroom as much as possible. As far as how I will do that I’m not exactly sure yet, but providing multiple learning environments for students increases their chance of success. I will provide when necessary internet resources as well as videos or podcast.

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