Module 2: Tetrad on Tablets

The tablet has great potential for creating an engaging learning environment for today's students. Below you will find a tetrad created to examine the tablet.

Enhances: What does this technology do that is new?

The tablet will incorporate a collaborative aspect in the learning environment while utilizing technology to keep students engaged. Although collaborative learning isn’t a new fad, it is highly emphasized in today’s classrooms. Using tablets to foster collaborative learning would create positive outcomes for the students.

Obsoletes: What does this technology replace?

Tablets in classroom instruction could possibly eliminate the use of laptops and textbooks in the classroom. The tablet could be used to retrieve important reading materials and reference documents to support content and daily lessons.

Retrieves/Rekindles: What does this technology bring to mind (or retrieve) from the past?

Many schools are using outdated textbooks, if any textbook is being used at all, because so many resources are readily available on the internet. Tablets could bring back the use of textbooks in a digital format as students are working in a collaborative environment to compare and contrast pieces of literature.

Reverses: What might replace this technology in the future, or what might it cause to occur?

Tablets could increase the use of individualized instruction as students are able to access specific learning resources to address the precise needs of the individual.

Reference:

Hursh, T. (n.d.). Tablet pcs for classroom use: Technology and application. Retrieved from http://courses.education.illinois.edu/edpsy317/sp03/challenge-reports/hursh-tabletpc.html

Module 1: Skype in the Classroom

From inside the classroom’s four walls to outside the state

Skype is a phenomenal tool to keep in touch with relatives and friends without incurring additional costs. What a wonderful way to be a part of someone’s life even if this person isn’t easily accessible at the drop of a dime! Skype also has tremendous possibilities for creating a collaborative learning environment for students – even students who aren’t present within the four walls of a teacher’s classroom. Often times teachers face resistance from administrators and technology gurus responsible for purchasing technology for classroom use because of the cost incurred with implementing these innovative resources. Skype, an application that allows users to make voice calls and video chat, can be implemented without incurring substantial costs.

It is important to note that to truly utilize Skype as a means of collaboration with students in other schools/classrooms, one would need access to a webcam. Many computers come with a webcam; however, this is not always the case. For teachers who do not already have a webcam installed, it is important to consider purchasing this item. Despite the need for webcams, the costs of implementing Skype are not extensive in comparison to other innovative educational tools. Without the webcam, students would still be able to communicate utilizing the application’s instant messaging tool. Some collaboration is better than no collaboration, right?

Utilizing Skype would foster a collaborative learning environment that allows students to work together to complete assignments while practicing positive communication skills. This simple task will provide students with essential skills that will later lead to increased marketability when seeking a job requiring the use of 21^stcentury skills.When implementing Skype, teachers must have a true focus in order to ensure effective instructional implications. Incorporating technology will engage learners, but engaging learners is not enough. Learners must be engaged and focused on a goal made clear by the teacher. The ultimate goal and purpose of using collaborative tools like Skype should be made clear when assignments are initially given to the students.

Learn more!

Click the picture for an article focusing on the use of Skype in classroom.