Technology in the Classroom- Podcast #1

Here is a podcast discussing the integration of technology into a K-12 classroom. Please enjoy and feel free to comment.


Podcast #1

Interesting Video

Here is a video about integrating technology into a classroom:

Integrating Technology In An Elementary Classroom

Check out this SlideShare Presentation:

Integrating Technology In An Elementary Classroom

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Two Page Paper

The integration of technology into educational classrooms is an important part of continuing the growth of curriculum to include modern innovations. Just like updating text books, using technology further acknowledges the changes that have transpired since the first teacher brought out a “textbook”. It is an integral part for our youth, as well as the world’s youth, due to the movement from paper to paperless. Integrating technology into the classroom requires not only a broad action plan but more specifically a teacher instigated plan.

Most school districts, including Houston Independent School District, have a long-range strategic plan for technology. HISD’s plan for integration is a 15 page guide to how it conspires to “guide and measure HISD’s technology efforts” (HISD Long-Range Strategic Plan for Technology 2006-2011). Some highlights of the plan include: an equitable distribution of technology among schools, applying new technology to teaching and learning, and creating and Instruction Technology Department. Each part of the plan requires the district to encourage and train their employees on the many innovations that have developed over the years.

Along with the broad action plan of the district it is the responsibility of the teacher to integrate technology into their classroom. Due to the massive innovations in recent years and the growth of the internet, children are very computer savvy. Providing the students with the opportunities to educational usage of computers is not only unique but also enlightening. Technology empowers students to see the world as their classroom and grants rapid access to information. Technology also gives the teachers ample resources which were previously unavailable or difficult to integrate into the classroom,

for example: videos and webcams (both which are prominently used in distance learning). Sites like Unitedstreaming.com, created by the “number one non-fiction media brand in the world” DISCOVERY, provide various resources that enhance any lesson. Computer software provided by the various text publishers along with many educational websites also can be assimilated into the daily schedule through centers or independent work time.

Currently at Garden Villas Elementary, a school over 75 years old, integrating technology into all the classrooms has hit a snag due to building codes and age old buildings. Along with its dilapidated buildings, it is a Title 1 school and has not yet received all the technological advancements that some prosperous schools in HISD have attained. My classroom contains three computers (one for personal use, the other two are computer stations) and one projector. I use all of my available technology in class each day. I have found that the children love to see short educational videos that I select to match the objectives that I am teaching. PopBrain, Jr. and United Streaming have graced my computer’s screen many times and have always received laughs and nods of understanding.

Technology is among other things a resource that can elevate instruction of students. It can help bridge the gap between low and high, and offer all children the opportunity to grow with the world. It is an integral and extremely important part of the classroom.

For more information visit HISD's Technology Department