Recently I implemented a technology lesson (Glogster) where students worked in partners or individually. During this lesson I had more opportunities to assist students one-on-one, improving the quality of the instruction for them. In the Social Studies classroom I see students at all levels and abilities and using technology to engage students at a higher and more meaningful level also allows me to work with many students on a deeper level. I feel that fewer students get left behind on any given day in the classroom. Looking forward to using more e-copies and techno next year.
It figures I would be replying to you
As you read through the text, some of your above-mentioned
concerns are addressed via the concepts of 1st order/2nd order
changes in Chapter 2. Overall, I'm inclined to agree with
you particlarly since I could not find any research as part of
this study that takes in to consideration knowledge/innovation
diffiusion nor the United Theory of Acceptance & use of
Technology which addresses the "baggage" and individual may bring
to the implementation of technology in to the classroom.
I have also been in conversations,with people outside of education, that believe computers are replacing teachers and teachers aren't doing their part. Introducing the foundation of research and the strands represented in Quality First Instruction and the teaching skills needed in the planning and implementation of a quality lesson,including technology, usually takes the discussion in a much different direction. The perception I have heard,of teachers being lab managers,sadly, is accurate. The understanding that the QFI is the compass that can drive improved,instructional decision-making and implementation, needs to be realized.
I heard someone recently say that if a teacher can be replaced by a computer, then that teacher should be replaced by a computer. A teacher is so much more than a computer. A teacher can guide, direct, and inspire his or her students. A computer cannot do those things. I have never heard someone say, "thanks to a computer, I went to college!', but I have heard someone say, "thanks to a teacher of mine, I went to college!".