Module 6 Reflection

Advantages 
      Earlier this semester, my peers and I were GLOBE certified. The GLOBE program integrates technology into science education. For example, Roblyer and Doering (2013) discuss the use of “data loggers” (p. 319) which record data over a period of time which the students can then use to make observations. In addition, using science software in the classroom is incredibly effective because it teaches children science content while engaging them through a “science game” (Roblyer and Doering, 2013, p. 323). Additionally, in my current 5th grade class, the school has subscribed to BrainPop. BrainPop is a website that has educational videos that are incredibly engaging. Since the school has purchased this subscription, each student has been able to benefit from this use of technology. Therefore, I believe that the use of technology in science instruction can be quite beneficial.

Check out this infographic about educational technology. 

Click here to view an infographic about tablets in education.

Disadvantages 
     I think the disadvantages of using technology in science instruction are similar to using technology in other content areas. In general, the funds to get and maintain technology are not always there. The video that we watched for this module discussed the BYOD (bring your own device) idea, however, I believe that even in 2013, there are still many student who do not have access to technology. However, when entire schools enroll in such programs as the GLOBE program (Roblyer and Doering, 2013, p. 319), the entire student body is able to benefit. Additionally, many students are easily distracted using some technologies such as iPads, where they can play on apps instead of being on task. Overall, I feel that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of technology usage in science education.

Please check out the infographic below about the pros and cons of social media in education.

M6 Check out this amazing human body science app! Here is the link: https://t.co/sFkrtJKRmJ … #ED447UM #edtech

— Rachel D (@RachCB2) November 19, 2013

Pros and Cons of Social Media in Education

Module 5 Reflection

The Interactive Classroom

21st Century Skills for Students and Teachers

            The interactive classroom is built upon the ICT (information and communication technology) framework.  Basically the term ICT is “used in place of terms instructional technology and educational technology” (Roblyer and Doering, 2013, p. 21). The framework encourages people to be able to use technology effectively and become more knowledge through using technology.  By using flipcharts in the classroom, children are exposed to technology literacy at a young age which will help their technology proficiency as they transition into the real world.

Technology use based on problem solving

            Roblyer and Doering (2013) state that it is important to gain students’ attention in order to engage them (p. 25).  By using interactive lessons, students are more likely to be engaged because it is familiar territory: students play interactive video games and interact with others using technology at an early age, so they are used to it.  As students begin to view technology as an essential resource, they will be able to use technology to problem solve more efficiently.

Constructivist vs. Objectivist

            The use of flipcharts is more objectivist because flipcharts cover specific information that is dictated by the teacher.  Flipcharts generally include “sequences of carefully structured presentations and activities to help students understand” (Roblyer and Doering, 2013, p. 47).  Some interactive classroom components may be more constructivist, such as project-based learning using technology, however the use of flipcharts specifically is more objectivist.

Flipchart

            The flipchart that I chose it fantastic in many ways.  It encourages technology literacy as referred to by Roblyer and Doering (2013, p. 21). It also transmits specific information to the students as referred to by Roblyer and Doering also (2013, p. 47) in reference to objectivist technology approaches.  Overall, this flipchart correlates well with the points communicated by the authors.

http://www.prometheanplanet.com/en-us/Resources/Item/34025/introduction-to-fractions-decimals-and-percent#.UnlPRRAZj5I

M5 Check out this infographic about #constructivism , #edtech , and #interactivetechnology --> http://t.co/dR569RcvnU … #ED447UM

— Rachel D (@RachCB2) November 5, 2013