Developing Vocabulary: Using Context Clues
The flip chart I chose aims to teach students to use context clues to determine the meaning of words they might be unfamiliar with and when they don't have a dictionary handy. While the internet and Google are quite ubiquitous, this is an immensely useful skill to have.
This particular flip chart integrates both hardware and software with the use of the ActivInspire software in conjunction with the use of a "clicker (a.k.a., student response systems)" (Roblyer & Doering 2013, p. 11). At the end of the presentation, students will answer questions posed in the presentation with a hand held device.
In addition to this integration, the presentation offers a great example of technology use based on problem solving. Roblyer and Doering note that students often need to "visualize underlying concepts in unfamiliar or abstract topics" (2013, p. 25). I believe that this presentation offers great context from which to understand the unknown or tough words. In addition, the clicker allows teachers to easily track and grade their students' performance and can come to know the effectiveness of their lessons (2013, p. 26).
As part of the essential conditions for technology integration, skilled personnel are at the very top of my list. As with good presentation design, good technology integration is built on understanding design elements and continued training and practice. Roblyer and Doering continue, "because technology resources and applications change so quickly, continuing professional development in technology resources and applications remains an essential condition for effective technology integration" (2013, p. 68). As I was searching through the flip books, many were vetoed because of their poor design or lack of total utilization of the software.
As I stated earlier, I believe this flip chart falls neatly into the category of data collection and analysis in regards to software support tools because of the integration of a "clicker." I love this feature because it "permits each student in a classroom to answer a question simultaneously and permits the teacher to see and display a summary of the results immediately" (Roblyer & Doering 2013, p. 157). This has endless possibilities the most exciting of which is more hands on or targeted teaching. If students struggle with a particular flip chart lesson, teachers can more easily identify these students and customize lessons or homework accordingly.
Reference
Roblyer, M.D. & Doering, A.H. (2012). Integrating educational technology into teaching (6th ed.). Columbus, OH: Merrill Prentice Hall.
I could not agree with you more about the need for skilled personnel in technology integration. According to Robyler and Doering, "successful technology programs hinge on well-trained, motivated teachers" (p. 65). Professional development is an integral part becoming a successful teacher, especially with the constant flow of new technology.
ReplyDeleteI love the hands on experience that hardware/software tools like ActiveInspire paired with a clicker offer students. Like Roblyer & Doering say, these tools are essentially making curricular decision so it's important to make sure we have the right technology needs met (2013. p. 67).
ReplyDelete