This blog will serve as a location for updates, discussion, and other follow-up items from Thomas Petra's Gateway to Technology professional development sessions. Bookmark this site or become a Follower by clicking on the Follow icon or by entering your email address. Please add comments to the different posts or use the comment feature as a way to ask a question after class.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
The Idea of Computers Replacing Textbooks
I do use textbooks to teach subjects such as Science, Health and Social Studies. I don't limit myself to just such a resource, though, but I could say I do use the textbooks a majority of the time during my instruction in these subjects. The issue I have about using textbooks is that the content is just too "dry" to keep the students engaged during the lesson. It would be ideal if there would be enough computers available in the classrooms, even if just enough to have students pair up. In addition, the availability of internet access would be a bonus, as well. This would allow students to become more interacted and engaged during the lessons. Students may even possibly get a better feel of the lessons by virtually experiencing the content being taught. So, ideally, I believe student learning would improve in subjects such as Science, Health and Social Studies, if computers and interenet access were more available in my classroom. Unfortunately, such an idea still seems far from becoming a reality.... in my classroom, at least.
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How about aiming for 10 minutes of instruction with technology at the start of each class? Use a projector with your computer. Then, try to add some assignments that require students to use/view technology at home. Even if we take small steps we're moving forward.
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