Technology to Support Learning

There are so many help technological tools available out there for teachers and students. I use the ones that are required of me through my district and I have slowly tried to branch out and integrate more technology in my teaching but it’s a slow process.

With almost all assignments that I give out, I allow my students to use technology but I do not require it. I feel as though I cannot require it for two main reasons: 1) how can I require it if I do not know how to use it myself? I cannot even help them if they have problem, and 2) not all of my students have access to computers, much less the advanced technology programs they may need. Is it fair to require some students to stress over finding the time to find the technology and then figure it out so they can do my assignment, while others can jump on the computer at home and be done in an hour’s time?

Typically, I will allow my students to choose the method in which they complete my assignments. I have baseline standards (i.e. include at least 3 graphics) but they can complete those by any means possible (i.e. print and glue, clip art, photographs, hand drawings, etc). I try to meet my students needs by allowing the time and flexibility to be creative and use a path that is familiar and comfortable to them. I always hope a students will go above and beyond in a way I haven’t yet seen done.

I have only used a few data collection and analysis tools in my short time teaching. During my five years as a classroom teacher, I have used Power Grade to track students assignments as well as attendance. I have become familiar with it and am now comfortable using it, which is timely because this coming year, we are forced to switch to Power Teacher. I have no training in this program and am not looking forward to using it. The teachers who have already made the transition to the new program have complained about how difficult it is to use. I am nervous to make that transition. This technology has probably been most helpful to our students and their parents. They may sign in to see their grades from anywhere. Students show more concern for their grades or question an assignment because they are constantly checking online. Parents talk to their children and email the teachers more often because they can see every assignment for every class their child is enrolled in. It’s a very helpful technology.

We also now use Mastery Manager for student’s exams. Final exams are taken on a specific form and the computer reads the forms and uploads the data immediately onto the computer. We have been briefed on using the technology but mostly, the administrators or hired help complete every step of the process for us. I am certain we will be encouraged to use it more and more over time but I will definitely need some training on how to do that.

Occasionally, it will be appropriate to use Power Point in my lectures. When I do use the program, I add clip art and graphics but now, that is about all I add. I had someone write down instructions on how to add sounds and make the slides enter or leave a certain way from the screen, but then we changed the technology and I have no idea how to get to those instructions any longer. Since we upgraded our technology, I have stopped using those small things that make the presentations more exciting.