Technology to enhance learning in the classroom

1. Technology to enhance learning in the classroom By Rachel Ethridge

2. Different learning types • Auditory • Kinesthetic • Visual

3. Auditory • sit where they can hear but needn't pay attention to what is happening in front • may not coordinate colors or clothes, but can explain why they are wearing what they are wearing and why • hum or talk to themselves or others when bored • acquire knowledge by reading aloud • remember by verbalizing lessons to themselves (if they don't they have difficulty reading maps or diagrams or handling conceptual assignments like mathematics).

4. Kinesthetic • need to be active and take frequent breaks • speak with their hands and with gestures • remember what was done, but have difficulty recalling what was said or seen • find reasons to tinker or move when bored • rely on what they can directly experience or perform • activities such as cooking, construction, engineering and art help them perceive and learn • enjoy field trips and tasks that involve manipulating materials • sit near the door or someplace else where they can easily get up and move around • are uncomfortable in classrooms where they lack opportunities for hands-on experience • communicate by touching and appreciate physically expressed encouragement, such as a pat on the back

5. Visual • take numerous detailed notes • tend to sit in the front • are usually neat and clean • often close their eyes to visualize or remember something • find something to watch if they are bored • like to see what they are learning • benefit from illustrations and presentations that use color • are attracted to written or spoken language rich in imagery • prefer stimuli to be isolated from auditory and kinesthetic distraction • find passive surroundings ideal

6. Technology and different learning types • Technology can incorporate all learning styles and reach more students than the traditional style of teaching with lecture and textbooks. • Games are available free of cost that keep students interest. • Technology is not limited to education alone, but may be able to help in all curriculum areas. • There are applications to help students learn spelling words, math problems and even type. • Some applications can be personalized to cover the current classroom curriculim. • Students can hear, see and manipulate things to learn more effectively

7. There are many different kinds of technology that will motivate and challenge students • PDA’s • ipods • ipads • Cell Phones • Laptop Computers • Ereaders • Interactive Whiteboards • Smart Tables

8. iPods • iPods can be used with the same applications as the iPhone or iPad. • There are thousands of free educational applications available in every subject area. • iPods are small and compact • Many students already own an iPod

9. iPads • iPads are bigger than the other handheld devices. • Bigger screen which is easier to view. • Have 3g capabilities so they can be used anywhere and do not require a wifi connection. • The larger icons are easier for smaller children to manipulate.

10. iPad Technology can be used for students of all ages to improve reading comprehension

11. Ohio students are required to pass a standardized test to graduate. This chart shows results from Spring 2011. Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) Test results from Spring of 2011 for students who had access to iPads (in blue) compared to students who did not (in yellow).

12. PDA’s • Not as expensive • Free apps • Free lesson plans • Good for group work

13. Cell Phones • Most students already have one • Portable • Most are durable • Most have applications available

14. Laptops • Portable • Larger screen • Able to access some applications • Less expensive than iPad • Help students become more familiar with a keyboard and typing

15. Pros • Stimulate imagination • Can be used anywhere • Students won’t have to miss work because of absence • Will allow teachers to give more individual attention • Will hold students attention • Can be placed in otter boxes for more protection • Engage students • Will provide learning in different ways to reach students who learn in different learning styles

16. Cons • Students could break or damage them • Some students may not know how to use the technology • The technology can be expensive

17. Benefits of Technology Inside the classroom Outside the classroom Students can still view work if they have to miss school Teacher can track progress Students can work in most any location • Can grab students attention • Can keep students motivated • Graphics and sound are more interesting than lecture or textbooks

18. Students receive visual stimulation, audio reinforcement, and interaction with technology. Students learn when they are interested and motivated; technology seems to do both.

19. Funding for classroom technology • www.technologygrantnews.com • www.fedgrants.org • www.grants.gov • www.2.ed.gov

20. References • www.readingrockets.org • www.throughstudentseyes.orrg • www.teacherprincipal.com • www.people.usd.edu • www.ednubla.com • www.scholastic.com • www.rediker.com/PDA.HTML • www.ikidapps.com • www.learninginhand.com • www.glencoe.com