Innovative Uses of Technology - Definition: Ways in which technology can be used in new, inspiring, and thoughtful ways. These innovations should spark new students growth and learning.
by Megan Barnard
1. Advantages
1.1. Students are up to date on the most recent software provided in relation to their subject's pedagogical content.
1.2. New options exist for distance learning.
1.3. Students are often able to get feedback much faster.
1.4. Students tend to have more independence in their learning and more opportunity to make choices towards their assignments.
2. Disadvantages
2.1. Teachers are often under-trained prior to students being given the software. This makes them seem incompetent and instructors because disillusioned with the technology in the classroom.
2.2. As soon as technology is purchased it often becomes obsolete.
2.3. It takes a great deal of planning on the part of the instructor and the administrator. If communication is lacking, it will likely not succeed.
2.4. Students can find it hard to accomplish necessary tasks if they are without internet or an application is not working.
3. How It Might Hinder Students
3.1. Students become to reliant on technology and stop developing necessary skills in social areas.
3.2. It sets them up to make mistakes that previous generations didn't deal with - like texting on their computer in class, or cheating.
3.3. If a teacher is ill prepared, the students end up losing class time because they are too busy trouble shooting issues with technology.
4. How It Might Help Students
4.1. Learning becomes more individual and feedback occurs more often.
4.2. Students learn how to use technology responsibly.
4.3. Using the internet means information and possibilities are endless.
4.4. Students are now able to work at their own pace in the classroom.
5. How Administrators Can Help
5.1. Before unveiling an administrator-led software or hardware decision, the administrator must be a MASTER of the product. If they cannot answer every question the teacher has, they cannot expect the teacher to be successful.
5.2. Administrators MUST employ enough people in the IT department for the school to be successful.
6. What Do Students Need To Know?
6.1. Prior to using any new innovative technology students should be able to define: What the purpose of the assignment it, how it would be useful in the long term, and how they can be successful.
6.2. All students need a course or introduction on proper digital citizenship prior to using technology. This information should include WHY digital citizenship is essential.
