Chapter 1

Educational Technology in Context: The Big Picture

Chapter 1 gives us a brief history of computer technology and how teachers have learned and used this technology in the classroom setting. Educators will use new methods if they can see clearly that students are progressing. For schools to use educational technology, it requires substantial investments in technology and teacher training. As the book states, “even teachers who have sufficient training and access to resources are not using technology as much as had been expected” (pg.13). It goes on to say, “Clearly, teachers are not hearing a convincing case for technology’s benefits.” As I read this quote, I can clearly see and relate that most teachers that I have run into do not use technology to its benefits. From my past experiences through junior high and high school I can hardly remember any of my teachers using the technology resources that the school provided for them. Now, there were times, in which teachers would use PowerPoint, overhead projectors, and smart boards. Doing these activities took a great amount of time from our class period and half the time the technology tools did not work. I believe that technology can help in the educational field as long as it is being used the right way. I have seen where a classroom full of students and computers can work well with projects, and other times where it turns into disaster. On page 14, I like how it lists examples of how technology can enhance a students learning or performance. For example, “Gaining their attention, Teachers say technology’s visual and interactive qualities can direct students’ attention toward learning tasks” (pg. 14). All in all I believe this chapter brings up some great points in how technology can and should be used in the educational classroom.

Book:
M.D. Roblyer and Aaron H. Doering, Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching. Fifth Ed. 2010