I sometime like to say
that we live in the technology era. Now that may be an understatement as
technology is always getting better and more advanced. The technology
integration matrix show the different ways to integrate technology in the
classroom. The ways that different teachers will use technology in their own
various ways adapting them into the classroom. We have come a long way from just using
computer or cassette player as a form of technology. We have iPads, tablets,
gaming consoles, phones, podcasts that enhance the classroom.
Looking at the
technology integration matrix the stage that I best think describes my thinking
is the Collaborative/ adaptation split. I like this because students use
technology independently in the collaborative stage. Then when combined with adaptation
stage students work together using various types of technology to learn. What
is important is that the teacher is still giving instruction as the student work
with the technological tools. I like this because it gives the students the
opportunity to be somewhat independent within a partnership. I think that it is
very important to allow the student to explore and perform tasks together as it
is a learning experience.
One of my experience in
my current elementary is the 5th grade doing science experiment. They
used our provided iPads and a few digital cameras to take picture of flowers.
The assignment allowed them to go outside and look for different types of
flowers. They worked in groups of three. It was great because they really only
had the initial instruction given by the teacher. She explained the assignment,
allowed them to pick their digital tool and went from there.
Another lesson I stepped
in on was a lesson that allowed the kindergarten grade level to use iPads to
sight words. They played various words game that helped with the learning of
sight words. This is all while the instructor was doing a guided reading
lesson. I believe that these stages of the matrix are best fitted for me and I
like the way technology is integrated into the educational scheme.
