The article on TPACK has been quite insightful. It has allowed me to understand that there is more to integrating technology in the classroom than a simple use of the overhead projector. In my own situation since there has been minimal professional and sustained instruction in technology integration there has been little attempt to use it in the classroom. However, the activity- based guidelines presented in the article offers many options and demonstrates that there are many areas in true integration can take place.
I particularly appreciated the point that technology integration is not to place the focus of instruction on the particular technology being used. Instead it should always be seen as a tool that can be utilized in delivery, learning, assessment etc. The point was made that teachers should not plan around the technology but should simply incorporate it in the classroom to achieve certain goals.
The article also made it clear that successful integration was dependent on pedagogical, content and technological knowledge. That is, it is imperative that teachers are knowledgeable re their content area and they must also be aware of the effective means of delivering the curriculim. The three types of knowledge must work in unison if we are to be truly successful in our efforts in technology integration.
Essential to the whole process is the relevance of proper planning. The challenge is not just to learn the content and be skilled in the operation of the technology but to effectively plan and deliver content.
I believe that utilizing TPACK will enhance the teaching/learning process.
I too share your view. The article was indeed insightful. It did impart a lot of USEFUL information. It is also very calamitous. I think I'll use another adjective "discouraging". It is also very discouraging that little effort is paid to the training of teachers in the application of up to date technologies. Technologies that can be used to assist in the delivery of the curriculum to the students.Delivery to them using a medium that they enjoy to use.
ReplyDeleteThe information was indeed very stimulating.I mean look at this just a week ago how many of us had a blog?
One of the significant points you raised about the use of technology in the classroom is that it is an instrument that must be utilized to achieve certain goals. I embrace that insight because if we use technology inappropriately, just for the sake of technology, we defeat the true objective of using it as a tool to aid delivery of what is being taught. Worse, wrongly use it might be a distraction or impediment that just waste valuable teaching time and impedes learning.
ReplyDeleteYes, the comment about training teachers in the integration of technology in the classroom is very important as many teachers do place their focus on the technology rather than the content. As usual, the Ministry sends memos without providing the proper infrastructure.
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