Chapter 1: Technologies for Teaching and Learning
Question 1: What is Educational Technology?
Educational technology has been defined by many to include "all sources of media used in the teaching process". The AECT has defined it as "the theory and practice of design, development, utilization, management, and evaluation of processes and resources for learning". The definition may vary according to whom you ask, but for all intensive purposes the answer is the same. In my opinion it is any source or form of electronic devices that may assist in the teaching-learning process.
Chapter one does a good job of looking at the different views and resources available to teachers today. It breaks down the different learning abilities of the student. The chapter covers how teachers have to understand that all students are different and will require different tools and resources for learning. Teachers have to decide what tools are available and how best to use them in order to enhance the learning capabilities of the student. Like the teacher in Illinois who found out that she had access to computers and internet for her gifted class. She didn't have a classroom in the beginning but she made do with the gym stage. She like other teachers has to continue to find ways to maximize the learning potentials of the student.
This chapter emphasizes also the importance of being aware of filters. Teachers need to utilize resources that will penetrate these filters to reach the student. When the right resource is used, filters can be compromised or even eliminated. Teachers must know the students in order to be aware of the various filters present in the classroom.
Overall this chapter does an excellent job of breaking down the definition of educational technology and how it effects on the learning process. This chapter has been an important chapter for me because it has provided a basis for the learning-teaching process.
Lever-Duffy, Judy & McDonald, Jean B. Teaching and Learning with Technology. Pearson Education, Inc., 2008. pp 4-33.
Blog Reflection Week Ten (Website)
14 years ago
I agree with your definition of educational technology, but remember the book also states that printed media and models are also considered forms of educational technology. I would have liked to see a few personal examples of technology you have used in your classroom in the past, or if you have not taught in a classroom yet, examples of what technology you would use. Sharing specific examples would probably help your blog readers understand your topic a little better. Overall, I thought you did a very good job on your explanation of educational technology.
ReplyDeleteLike everything else in the education field, everybody has to get their two cents in. Even something simple like a definition for "educational technology" causes differing opinions. I like the way you addressed this. I also like your perspective on filters. Of all the factors that can interfere with communications, I also this this is the most difficult to overcome, because you do have to have a knowledge of every single student. To me, this is the scariest part of being a prospective teacher. Looking forward to your next blog. "Signing out"
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed reading your reflection and your peers' comments
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