Advantages of Integrating Technology
There are so many Social Science applications to bring
modern technology into the classroom and engage students. Roblyer and Doering
(2012) discuss 10 separate themes applicable to the social sciences spanning
the entire spectrum of the curriculum (p.334-335). The integration of programs
involving simulations of historical time periods is quite intriguing. It is
during these simulations that students develop problem solving skills and
receive a better perception of historical time periods (Roblyer & Doering,
2012, p.338). The following video exemplifies the advantages of technology in
the Social Studies classroom and activities for students.
Technology in Our Schools: The Social Studies & History Classroom
Disadvantages of Integrating Technology
The cost of maintaining a computer network available
to students, especially with internet connectivity, is enormous. Even if the
costs are accessible to school districts there are other problems for teachers.
Roblyer and Doering (2012) acknowledge that teachers may be ill prepared or
unaware of current technology programs to properly present their content
curriculum (p.347). Roblyer and Doering (2012) also reveal that educators need further
development to learn these new programs stating, "Teachers need to "know
what they don't know" regarding technology in their content area"
(p.347). Educators are now expected to not only know their content area, but
also they are expected to understand new programs and software packages that
better engage the 21st century students. The video below discusses the
disadvantages of integrating technology into the classroom.
Education: Teaching & Writing: Disadvantages of Computers in the Classroom
Specific Activities, Programs, Etc.
I am fortunate to have been exposed to the ArcGIS software
for geospatial analysis. This software contains absolutely wonderful graphic
representations of may global locations, but the learning curve for the
technology is rather steep. The use of this program by educators would benefit
students, and the activity of "Geocashing" is readily available for
anyone to create (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p.344). The video below is of
high school students involved in a spy camp at TSU.
Agree that technology knowledge can be a challenge! Robyler & Doering recommend professional development and other training classes to keep up to speed (347).
ReplyDeleteRoblyer and Doering (2012) talk about using geocaching in the classroom, an idea that you bring up that I would have only thought existed as a hobby (p.344). Geocaching is something that I have done before, but to incorporate it in the classroom is something that I'm sure students would love and really help them get motivated on a project or class discussion.
ReplyDeleteRoblyer and Doering (2013) exclaim that "Technologies change faster than teachers can keep up."(10). This relates to the statement about teachers not being completely prepared when it comes to using technology. Its going to be challenging to stay current.
ReplyDelete