Wiki+Update

Week 1 update:  This Week's readings addressed the issue of technology in the classroom, its use, benefits, challenges, and the different educational theories that promote and support its implementation in instruction. Educational technology can promote student achievement if teachers have the required knowledge and know-how to implement the appropriate technology tools and resources in their instruction. As a result of effective implementation of technology, teachers can expect their students to experience higher engagement in their learning process, and deeper understanding of concepts taught. Educational theories and research provide a wealth of evidence to support the statements above. Spraque and Dede confirm that through problem-based activities students develop a deeper understanding with the help of technology as a tool to solve the problem in a constructivist environment. (Spraque & Dede, 1999)

Schools and teachers find themselves at a crossroad, keeping up with the social realities of their students or losing them to other schools that do. So, change and incorporation of more technology in instruction has become more of a necessity than a choice in order to continue communicating with students, whose first language is technology.

Designing technology centered instruction is vital in ensuring that the curriculum is student – centered, because it makes it easy to: - Tap into students' interests, promoting engagement; - Differentiate instruction for individuals based on their needs and learning styles; - Connect instruction to real world experiences. (Solomon & Schrum, 2007)