Discussion 5.

1: Teacher Use of Technology

Connect - The previous chapter discusses a complex relationship within
curriculum, technology, and professional growth and development activities.
It also states that in order to be implemented successfully, there must be a
strong understanding that technology creates a new layer for professional
development that embraces both technology learning and curricular
alignment in relationship to one another. There must also be an
understanding of how carefully constructed professional development can
support technologys most judicious use. Teachers need to understand
each layer in order to move forward. This chapter states that if teachers are
not provided the useful support (the type of professional development
mentioned previously) needed to integrate computers into the overall
framework of the classroom, it is unlikely that their students will use
computers in ways that improve learning. It also talks about teacher beliefs
concerning their personal ability to successfully use technology and their
beliefs regarding the potential effect on student achievement can have a
significant impact on determining what actually happens in the classroom. A
deeper understanding by teachers and the belief that technology can
enhance learning must be present within the teachers and administrative
staff in order for technology-enhanced instruction to occur.
Extend The data collected from NAEP suggests that although students
must learn facts and basic skills, emphasis on advanced reasoning skills
promotes higher student performance. The advanced reasoning skills can be
given to students through a variety of technology tools. I did not know that
this data was found until I read this chapter. I think that is a step in the right
direction! Also, I would have to agree with Brooks (2004) statement that she
believes that there is a lack of focus on higher-order thinking skills because
of an emphasis on standardized testing.
Challenge If we know that technology can advance students reasoning
skills, and the advanced reasoning skills promote higher student
performance, then what are we waiting for?! Is this not the same goal that is
sought after in the standardized testing scores?