https://centretechnologies.com/importance-of-technology-in-the-classroom/
After reading this article online, I have fallen in love with technology in the classroom even more! My favorite point from this article is when it states, "The internet gives the students instant access to answers beyond what's in their textbook". That is something that I have seen first hand in the classroom and the students respond well to researching their own information. Robyler says, "Simulations, or software that allows users to work with a computerized model of a real or imagined system, can help make these concepts more clean and meaningful" (Robyler 2017). Technology allows the students to find their own research and work independently if they choose. It is a great way to prepare the students for the future.
Disadvantages of Integrating Technology
http://www.eslteachersboard.com/cgi-bin/tech/index.pl?read=136
This article makes a lot of good points about the disadvantages of integrating technology in the classroom. The one point that stands out the most is when it says, "With all of the demands on students, the amount of time spent in the classroom is more and more valuable. To lose 10 minutes a day or class period because of connectivity issues is not feasible, and it's one important reason why technology integration often fails in schools". Teaching in the classroom has shown me how valuable time is and that there is no room for technical issues. If a teacher is depending on using technology for a lesson and it does not work, they will spend time trying to fix it or have to resort to a backup plan.
Specific Activities, Programs, Etc
Robyler lists some useful resources in chapter 12 for technology and social studies:
- Census in Schools
- Democratic and Republican Party Websites
- Ellis Island Records
- U.S. Congress (http://thomas.loc.gov)
- The White House (http://www.whitehouse.gov)
- PBS kids
- Photo Forgery (New York Times Article)
- Media Construction of War-Project Look Sharp
