Where do you start?
There are so many tools available today, it is hard to know where to begin. I would say this to you: begin at the end. In other words, do not try to make your lesson fit with a particular tool. Instead, identify the final objectives for your lesson and select a tool to do the job. For example, if you wanted to build something, you would not pick up a hammer and then look for something to build. You would first identify what you want to build, then select the right hammer that would accomplish the task.
I have collected various web tools and links in this site for you. Do not try to do them all at once. Before you begin selecting one, first know what it is you want to accomplish. Then select a tool to help you meet that goal. Here is a planning chart that can help to guide you in the process of integrating technology.
Remember, there is a big difference in "using technology" and "integrating technology". When you use technology, you project videos or powerpoints. Maybe the students will type a paper occasionally. Perhaps they practice skills on a computer. All this is NOT integrating technology. When you integrate technology, it becomes such a vital part of your curriculum that not only are you using it, but your students are using it as well. They are doing more than typing a paper or creating a PowerPoint. They are creating, synthesizing, problem solving, collaborating, publishing, and SELECTING from a variety of options a method of presenting their final work. When the technology is in the hands of the students and you are stepping down from your role of "sage on stage", then technology can become integrated.
I will not try to tell you this is an easy process. As one who struggled with this very concept, I can tell you it can be difficult to change the way you think about teaching and learning. However, I will also tell you that once I realized what a difference it made for my students, it became easier. They were excited, engaged, and eager for more. Who can say no to that? Just give it a try - just with one tool - one project - something, and see how it goes.
I will be here for you if you need any help. Let me know if you need to ask questions, brainstorm, or even express concerns. I am here for you!
Check out the updated version of Bloom's Taxonomy.
(image retrieved from Andrew Churches, 2007. http://www.pdst.ie/sites/default/files/BloomDigitalTaxonomy-AndrewChurches.pdf)
Here is a rubric you can use to evaluate how you are using techology. I will happy to engage in a discussion with you about this if you are interested.
Learn about software tools HERE.
Learn about hardware tools HERE.
Learn about web tools HERE.
I have collected various web tools and links in this site for you. Do not try to do them all at once. Before you begin selecting one, first know what it is you want to accomplish. Then select a tool to help you meet that goal. Here is a planning chart that can help to guide you in the process of integrating technology.
Remember, there is a big difference in "using technology" and "integrating technology". When you use technology, you project videos or powerpoints. Maybe the students will type a paper occasionally. Perhaps they practice skills on a computer. All this is NOT integrating technology. When you integrate technology, it becomes such a vital part of your curriculum that not only are you using it, but your students are using it as well. They are doing more than typing a paper or creating a PowerPoint. They are creating, synthesizing, problem solving, collaborating, publishing, and SELECTING from a variety of options a method of presenting their final work. When the technology is in the hands of the students and you are stepping down from your role of "sage on stage", then technology can become integrated.
I will not try to tell you this is an easy process. As one who struggled with this very concept, I can tell you it can be difficult to change the way you think about teaching and learning. However, I will also tell you that once I realized what a difference it made for my students, it became easier. They were excited, engaged, and eager for more. Who can say no to that? Just give it a try - just with one tool - one project - something, and see how it goes.
I will be here for you if you need any help. Let me know if you need to ask questions, brainstorm, or even express concerns. I am here for you!
Check out the updated version of Bloom's Taxonomy.
(image retrieved from Andrew Churches, 2007. http://www.pdst.ie/sites/default/files/BloomDigitalTaxonomy-AndrewChurches.pdf)
Here is a rubric you can use to evaluate how you are using techology. I will happy to engage in a discussion with you about this if you are interested.
Learn about software tools HERE.
Learn about hardware tools HERE.
Learn about web tools HERE.