Instead a question most prominent for me is Which technologies are the best?? More specifically, for me to address with teachers, Which one(s) should I advocate in my position as an elementary technology coordinator- to promote positive and meaningful experiences and, as a result, create rigorous and significant learning? How do I integrate technology?
Often, I am asked for advice from colleagues on how to integrate technology into lessons. I remind them to treat their “techno-infused” lessons as they would all of the lessons by: First, reflecting upon their audience/ group of learners; and second, determine their desired end result given a topic/project/goal. Then, begin to explore and rationalize available technologies & tools. Keep in mind technology may not always be the best method. Just because a method may make a lesson flashy or extra-fun, it doesn’t mean it’ll add to the learning experience. Also, and most unfortunate, think about the limitations within your school’s network. (most exist under the blanket of providing security!)
After ALL that leg work, think about what the technologies can add to the learning experience…looking for the answer that works best in the scenario developed above. Creating techno-infused lessons that are meaningful can involve lots of trial-and-error. A learning experience for the student(s) as well as the teacher! Think about what might work, what did work, and what to change to make it work.
My MOST IMPORTANT piece of advice: KNOW and REALIZE that there is NOT one RIGHT answer. Nor is a RIGHT answer always a right answer. It is important to accept that what works in one situation may not work in all situations. This is where the reflective practitioner comes in…
Places to start:
Ten Technology Tools for Technology-Rich Learning
How-To: Use New Technology to Reinforce Instruction
How to Use Technology in the Classroom
Your last statement says it all. Most times, we think that there is one right answer. There are so many different ways to do things; especially when it comes to technology. As you said, curriculum and the students need to come first. Then, ask how does technology enhance the teaching/learning! The challenge that you might have is how do I do this with only 4-5 computers in my classroom. I also think that getting a handle on the basic technologies is important before trying Web 2.0 technologies. They can still meet the NETS without incorporating the Web 2.0 tech; although, it is really powerful!
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