Journal 5 - NETS-T 3,4,5

Join ISTE, read a journal article from Learning & Leading with Technology, reflect upon the article, and use proper APA citation using Citation Machine


Blanchard, M, Harris, J, & Hofer, M. (2010). Grounded tech integration: science. Learning & Leading With Technology, 37(6), Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=March_April_No_6_1&Template=/Mem bersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4516&ContentID=25510&DirectListComboInd=D

Grounded Tech Integration: Science

This article is concerned with promoting the correct use of digital science classroom technology such as interactive whiteboards, podcasts, simulations, as well as slightly older technologies such as Power Point presentations and use of document cameras. The authors’ concern was that teachers might become too focused on how to physically use the digital technology at their disposal instead of using their expertise as teachers to form lesson plans that enlist good pedagogical technique. This article was is not to indict teachers but to help them build lesson plans that are resourceful, meaningful, and engaging. The use of cheap technology (which is getting continuously better) in the science classroom is especially helpful because often even good traditional resources such as Bunsen burners and microscopes aren’t often available in science classrooms.

How does the article propose good applications for digital classroom technology?

This article gives a sort of case study of a team of sixth grade science teachers who had a “dry” unit on the solar system that they had changed to be more interactive yielding better student involvement. Also, there are a few diagrams that give suggestions and they are organized for quick reference such that it names typical non-technological classroom learning activities, provides a description of activities relating to it, then provides possible technologies that can help for these activities.

What was a good way mentioned in the article how to ensure an activity and choice of technology will likely work in a classroom?

The key to this is collaboration among teachers with similar classes or experiences. This can act as a type of peer review before putting something into action in addition to getting some different ideas and perspectives on their work.