Journal #2- "Grounded Tech Integration"

Harris, J., & Hofer, M. (September/October 2009)."Grounded Tech Integration", volume 37 (2009-2010) (No. 2). Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=September_October_No_2_3&Template=/MembersOnly.cfm&NavMenuID=4381&ContentID=24179&DirectListComboInd=D

Reading through the five steps to technology integration was very interesting because it helped you to see how to create effective lesson plans and the steps to do so. The eight corresponding continua was very interesting because it allows you to see how to set up the right lesson plan using the appropriate learning goals. You then create the learning experience, assess and then incorporate the right learning materials to use. You are now able to bring in the technology to the lesson plan. I think now days it is very important for teachers to use technology in the classroom. I also feel that because many teachers are ill-equipped as well as might not even know how to incorporate technology, they should have to take a course to learn how to do so. Students should start to learn how to use programs like Microsoft, PowerPoint, and Excel. They might not need to know it extremely well, but have the gist of what to do.
What is so sad is that teachers now days are sticking strait to what the school standards tell them too, when they could be including fun ways using technology to teach these standards. Creating a PowerPoint and adding a fun little quiz using Power Point in the end will make the lesson that much more interesting. What would be more fun, reading out of a textbook, or learning through PowerPoint with pictures and fun activities to add to the lesson?

Do you think teachers should learn how to use the three programs I listed above?
Yes. I think that teachers need to be able to incorporate technology into their lesson plans. Not only does it make the class more interesting but the students then get a feel for the program as well.

Should teachers stick to only standard based learning?
I think this is a horrible idea. I know that teachers have to by law, but it does not limit them to only that. By adding PE, and technology and tying them into the lesson plan I feel will give the school better results in the long run.