Should technology (computer skills, typing, software instruction, etc.) be taught as separate skills or as part of an integrated lesson?
As I read this question, I look at my school dynamics,and I think BOTH! I think technology should be taught in isolation to provide students the opportunity to practice typing and enhance their computer skills. If students are given the change to visit the Computer Lab every week and practice typing, learning the keyboard or learning how to make a power point presentation or other technical based presentation options, then it will make it easier when teachers require them to use those programs in lessons or classroom presentations. I also feel like technology should be integrated into lessons because students are great at learning technology quickly, as it's presented to them. They are fearless and very inquisitive. If a teacher demonstrates a required program or type of software, more than likely students will pick it up or understand it. If we wait until students know how to type or make power points etc., then teachers or students may never get an opportunity to integrate technology into the curriculum. So, I feel that technology should be taught in isolation, strictly for the purpose of enhancing or practicing basic computer skills (typing, learning the keyboard, etc. I think teachers should jump in with integrating technology because students may have challenges in the beginning, but are very excited about technology and are not afraid to dive in. and get their feet wet. The more you practice, the easier something becomes.
http://philly-teacher.blogspot.com/2010/02/how-do-we-best-teach-technology.html
http://thejournal.com/articles/2009/10/01/technologys-impact-on-effective-teaching-strategies.aspx?sc_lang=en
http://www.ncpublicschools.org/curriculum/computerskills/faq/#1
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Lisa this sounds exactly like my post!!! There has to be time for tech skills to be taught in isolation just as you teach the content in isolation. Giving students time to practice both makes the integrated lesson a lot more productive. It also allows the students to showcase their skills and knowledge on both sides!
ReplyDeleteI agree Lisa. Kids also need that time to explore technology on their own. I know that's how I learn best when it comes to technology.
ReplyDeleteYes, for little kids I think they should learn how to navigate the keyboard area in isolation. And I suppose with the upper grade students a program like Photoshop should have the basic "This is what tools the toolbar has..." lesson. I do think kids learn when there is a purpose, or product they need to create. So I suppose I am saying that the tech in isolation lessons are limited to the initial one or two lessons.
ReplyDelete-Lindsay