Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Currently I am on leave so I do not have a classroom to refer to directly. I am a reading teacher and have also been a primary classroom teacher. I worked many years at a school in Corvallis, so I will use the technology there as the basis for my response. The school has a large computer lab that classes can visit once a week and at other times if it is available. It is (was?) also open some evenings for use by the community. Each classroom has at least two computers, a television with a VCR and a listening center. There are several digital cameras available for check-out in the computer lab. The library catalog is on the computer. Just to function in the school, students have to learn to use input and output devices as well as the terminology to communicate about technology.
Direct instruction in the use of computers should require very little time- probably a few short lessons. The majority of the technology standards can be addressed by integrating the use of computers, digital cameras, videos, etc. into content area projects. Students can work in groups and individually to research and present topics in social studies and science. Students can produce or help produce a web page and/or an on-line class newsletter (that can be printed for families that don't have internet at home.) Computer games that fit into content areas can be made available during class time or free time whichever is most appropriate.
Students can use digital cameras to take pictures to illustrate their writing. With a little help, first graders can create PowerPoint presentations about themselves that can be displayed at open house. As long as the batteries are charged and the systems are running, there are many ways to integrate technological tools into classroom curriculum.