A friend recently attended a conference that had many technology sessions for his subject area. He heard phrases like “the technology motivates them”, “the students like being able to make choices about the background”, and “they like to create.” He did not hear about how students learn with the technology! We have to move from the “isn’t this wonderful!” phase of technology to the “how does this increase student learning?” phase of technology integration.
His epiphany was made even more obvious when he realized that teachers had students use the lowest of learning for the technology. Students did Knowledge /memorization activities. They practiced the spelling of words instead of using/applying the words in sentences. In another case, students used Wallwisher to write a simple phrase or sentence about the topic. They did not have to justify their statement. They did not react to other students” phrases by agreeing or disagreeing. We can structure the learning experience so have students think at the highest levels (Bloom’s) through the use of technology!
How do you use technology in your classroom?
My book, Formative Assessment: Responding to Your Students, is available through Eye on Education.
Also, my book, Successful Student Writing Through Formative Assessment, is available through Eye on Education.
