Student+Engagement

Student Engagement Instructional technology is an important part of education in today’s society. Students are becoming more and more familiar with technology, and the world is using it more and more. The best way to engage our “tech generation” is to incorporate technology in the classroom every chance we get. We have been using technology in the classroom for quite a while, but it is time that we use it in our instruction. This means that the students use the technology. From computers to smartboards to document cameras, students can be using these items to assist them in the classroom. There are unlimited resources, activities and lesson plans available on the computer and students can use various software programs to integrate technology into ordinary assignments. During this class we were asked to identify two examples of our “Best use of Instructional Technology with Student Involvement.” I chose the two examples I did, for two very different reasons.

The first example is using Microsoft Word to have students type their assignments rather than write them. I chose this as a best example, because I think it is important for students to practice basic computer skills and this allows them to integrate writing and technology.

The second example was using Photo Story 3 to create a “digital scrapbook.” I chose this because it is a lesson I would like to incorporate in my classroom. I actually observed a lesson in which Photo Story 3 was being used, and have developed a lesson plan for my Civil War Unit to use the software.



Click below to see details about both lessons.

When we were first asked to complete this assignment, I didn’t really know what I was supposed to do. As I read more about the assignment I realized that we were really evaluating what we do, or would like to do. Through this assignment I realized that I would like to be using more technology in my lessons, where the students are the ones actually using the technology to learn. I think a lot of the information and resources I have gained from this class will help me be able to achieve this goal.
 * Reflection:**