Sunday, October 18, 2009
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Welcome
The first domain of the Texas Long-Range Plan for Technology focuses on teaching and learning. Included in this domain is the need for technology rich content, communication with peers and experts on content, access to online resources, and distance and online learning.
I have seen much growth in this area in the past few years. Teachers began enriching content by using PowerPoint rather than a textbook for instruction and it has grown to seeing classes interact with experts via video conferencing and blogs. The transformation is astounding!
Many educators are making small steps in the right direction, however these small steps won't catch us up to the need of the 21st century learner. With children having access to the Internet, computer-based learning programs, and other technology-based learning products (like Leapfrog, Hooked on Phonics, V-tech, and even Nintendo) before they even set foot in a classroom, a traditional or mildly integrated classroom setting can hinder the progress already made.
In order to improve teaching and learning, teachers must be willing to break away from the traditional "this is the way I was taught and I'm doing okay" style of teaching and learn ways to incorporate our modern conveniences to the application of the content they teach. Many districts across the state are rising to this challenge and offering training to help teachers learn ways to integrate technology, but it is up to us as educators to invest the time to create a future our students can excel in.
I have seen much growth in this area in the past few years. Teachers began enriching content by using PowerPoint rather than a textbook for instruction and it has grown to seeing classes interact with experts via video conferencing and blogs. The transformation is astounding!
Many educators are making small steps in the right direction, however these small steps won't catch us up to the need of the 21st century learner. With children having access to the Internet, computer-based learning programs, and other technology-based learning products (like Leapfrog, Hooked on Phonics, V-tech, and even Nintendo) before they even set foot in a classroom, a traditional or mildly integrated classroom setting can hinder the progress already made.
In order to improve teaching and learning, teachers must be willing to break away from the traditional "this is the way I was taught and I'm doing okay" style of teaching and learn ways to incorporate our modern conveniences to the application of the content they teach. Many districts across the state are rising to this challenge and offering training to help teachers learn ways to integrate technology, but it is up to us as educators to invest the time to create a future our students can excel in.
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