So the ICT course is over but the fun has just begun. To some of us the idea of using our newly learnt technology to teach literacy to our students might be a bit daunting. The thought that we really don’t have a choice does nothing to ease the pressure either. There’s no getting around it, we have to be aware of the uses of the technology and how it is constantly changing. We need to ensure that it’s integrated into our lessons so at the end of the day our students have spent enough time interacting with the technological tools to which they were exposed.
There’s no need to be intimidated. Here are some tips I came across to get you started.
1.PREPARE
There is nothing worse than an ill prepared lesson. Students begin to make noise and play. The rhythm of the lesson is lost and our objectives are not achieved. Know what you are doing and how you are going to do it.
2.RUN IT THROUGH
Remember what Ms Wood Jackson said repeatedly? Test run the technology before your lesson. Yes it is SUPPOSED to work but these things have a mind of their own. Check to ensure the equipment you need is working and available.
3.USE TECHNOLOGY WITH A PURPOSE
This leaves the students no time to get into trouble on the computer. Know which website you want them to visit, and what you want them to do there. Provide them with headphones so they can turn up the volume without distracting others.
Remember technology can be fun in spite of the related headaches. Go brave!!
Clivia,
ReplyDeleteI really like this post. I see it as encouraging words for us to keep in mind, as we anticipate using the technology. I like the last point because I was reading an article today, which points to the fact that the technology should not be used routinely but sensibly.This means that it should support our strategies.
I know some of us will have fears and I believe as Reading Specialists,there is need for us to communicate using this medium of blogging. We can help each other.
This post is an excellent parting reminder. Be prepared is a motto we should allow live by. We need to prepare our lessons, prepare our resources and material (this includes ensuring that technology works) and prepare for when things go wrong (contingency plans).
ReplyDeleteThe last point you made should be highlighted. Roblyer ( 2006) suggested that if an activity could be done offline, then maybe it should. Doing activities online should enhance the instructional stragtegy as well as the learning of the student.
Teachers should not try to do activitiesonline because that learnt it in a course and think it's fun or up to the times. We must remember our students and their abilitiies.
Lovely, and I must say that the task ahead is daunting but there is some excitement attached to it. I herald your advice and I hope that as reading specialists, we would be exceptional role models of dedicated and hard working educators.
ReplyDeleteWe must be prepared when we stand before our children and structure those lessons to create a lasting effect. Like you rightly said, when incorporating technology we should ensure that it serves a purpose and can satisfy a learning need.Always run a pre test on the equipment and have materials to supplement when the technology fails.I think this is an exciting journey and I can't wait.