Creating a Technology-Infused Classroom

I would define a technology-infused classroom as a classroom that has various types of technology readily available for students to use throughout the school day.  It would not be necessary for me to intentionally assign students to use technology devices or applications.  I would simply assign students to their groups or centers, and they would have a choice between using technology or traditional methods for their own learning purposes.

My plan for creating a technology-infused classroom involves integrating technology into all of my lessons to be used independently, in partner work, or in small collaborative groups by my students.   I would have technology available for students to use to produce work (Word or PowerPoint), to communicate with one another (i.e., blogs or chat room), to problem-solve, and for skills practice.  My library would include eReaders in addition to printed books to offer students a choice of how to access reading material.   I would include laptops in my writing center so students would have a choice of producing either handwritten or typed papers.   I would maintain a list of acceptable internet sites that coincide with printed research books.  I would also include laptops or iPads in all learning centers so that students could access different types of media for learning or skills practice.   My intention is not to replace printed materials, but to add technology as another viable resource for student learning.  For example, for students who have mastered multiplication, they practice fluency by completing a timed multiplication worksheet.  For my struggling students, they can learn how to use their hands by watching the YouTube.com video below on their laptop or iPad.  

                                        Source: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=twv-ynv_m9o

                                                                    21st Century Learning

 

Instructional Strategies to Educate 21st Century Learners

The Need to Implement a Variety of Instructional Strategies to Support Learning

As we begin to shift our instructional approach from teacher-directed to student-directed learning, teachers have a greater responsibility to create learning experiences that address a variety of learning styles and learning abilities.  Students approach instruction with diverse levels of skills and knowledge. Effective teaching encompasses a range of instructional strategies that will enable students to master expected learning outcomes.   In many ways, learning occurs through scaffolding.  Therefore, mastery of basic skills is mandatory in order for students to develop higher order thinking skills necessary to solve complex problems.

Teachers have to be flexible when designing learning experiences.   Some students may require direct instruction while other students are academically prepared with the skills and knowledge to engage in collaborative learning experiences.  While all students can benefit from the integration of technology as a learning tool, their experiences with technology will vary. In order for me to be an effective teacher of students in the 21^st century, I must be flexible in my approach to instruction and be prepared to use a variety of instructional strategies that will meet the needs of all of my students in an effort to maximize their learning.  I must be able to fluctuate between teacher-centered and student-centered learning activities with the end goal of facilitating all learning experiences for my students. I must also ensure that all learning experiences integrate technology so that my students’ acquisition of knowledge and skills reflect the needs of 21^st century learners.

I linked an informative video relating to the shift in education.  I found it informative and motivating. http://www.thersa.org/events/rsaanimate/animate/rsa-animate-changing-paradigms 

21st Century Learner

Introduction Post

I am a special education teacher for NYC Public Schools.  I am increasing my professional development by taking a instructional technology class.  By improving my skills in instructional technology, I will be able to enhance my instruction, grab students' attention, make learning more fun and realistic, and increase my students' learning outcome.  My basic philosophy is, "All students can learn once we gain their full attention!"