Choosing Tools/Matrix

Matrix for Choosing Tools

My very nature is to be systematic in my approach to life's decisions, planning events and building programs, so the decision making matrix for matching technology tools to your instructional design makes total sense. In order for technology to be effective in teaching and learning there must be a good fit between the operations or technical requirements of the program and the instructional goals and objectives. Accessibility and reliability are key as well. How many times have I heard, "Technology is great, when it works, but the source of much frustration when it doesn't!" There is nothing worse than to count on a program in your lesson that supports teaching and learning and then it doesn't work for what ever reason. All your students waiting, some not very patiently as you stare at your laptop and pray it magically starts to work. One or two times with this happening within the classroom and teachers will shy away from incorporating technology into their classrooms. I don't blame them. Time, time, time....time to plan, time to learn the technology, time to try it out, time to help students master the technology, time to share....all needed when matching technology to our instructional design. Teachers need more time! Administrators too!

Reflection

I believe that the read/write Web, or what we are calling Web 2.0, will culturally, socially, intellectually, and politically have a greater impact than the advent of the printing press. (2008) Steve Hargadon believes we cannot even begin to imagine the changes that are going to take place as the two way nature of the Internet begins to grow. He identifies ten trends that have particular importance for education and learning. He then discusses seven steps he thinks educators should take to make a difference during this digital revolution. Read his entire speech by clicking here.  link  


I believe one of the most impressive things about Web 2.0 is the fact that it is not under the control of any one person, organization, or institution. In essence, everyone owns the technology, everyone can contribute and everyone can learn something. For a number of reasons, I believe the Web 2.0 and the eventual future Web 3.0 is the perfect environment for educators. These tools are going to dramatically shape how students learn, how educators approach teaching and how we will learn from each other.
I also believe the Web 2.0 tools play to the strengths of educators--curiosity, collaboration and love of learning. It is an incredibly exciting time as well as confusing and even an intimidating time to a large number of us as we embrace the new social dynamics of technology within the realm of education. Bottom line, I feel very much behind in my knowledge and skills with technology and have an anxiety about catching up!

Learning Curve

Post 2
Coming to the end of my first class and I've learned to create a blog and post to a blog! Major accomplishments...hope I can remember everything I've learned so I can do my homework successfully.

The Technology Toolbelt for Teaching

Welcome to my journey of new learning regarding Technology Connections for Effective Teaching!