What the research tells usResearch indicates that to implement ICT successfully in their classrooms teachers must ...understand what visual literacy is and rethink what learning to read and write means in the 21st century. (Goodwyn et al 1997; Reid et al, 2002)
The research also indicates that ICT is most effective when embedded in the curriculum, and integrated into units of work (Dickinson, 1998). English teachers can maximize the impact of ICT in their classrooms by ensuring that they and their students use ICT as an integral part of lessons, present ideas dynamically, and use a range of media. (Becta, 2006). ICT should be integrated in such a way as to require purposeful application and meaningful engagement with the technology. For example:while pupils are using a desk top publishing package to create a school newspaper they are also developing their ability to communicate more effectively. This provides both a context and a meaning for the ICT activity. Taking the IT out of context and teaching IT skills separately, not only decontextualises ICT but also places additional burdens on curriculum time. The use of ICT therefore should be a meaningful part of an activity where it is used to consolidate or extend pupils' learning. (Lewisham ICT Training for Teachers,2006)To implement ICT successfully in their classrooms teachers also need to:identify how ICT can be used to meet specific objectives within the English curriculum to improve pupils attainment (Moseley et al,1999)understand that successful use of ICT depends on other factors such as pupils’ work in the classroom away from the computer, discussions between pupils and between pupils and their teacher, and the ways in which pupils interact with each other at the computer (Mc Cormick and Scrimshaw,2001 cited in Becta, 2005)
tamarasteinhardt on 06 Mar 17As briefly discussed in module one it suggests that as a pre-service teacher we should consider including digital technologies to represent mental/conceptual models to assist in the learning process. I am interested to see how this may be achieved? Have you any ideas how this can be done in an inclusive classroom?
lottie01 on 06 Mar 17Currently I am teaching in an environment with a diverse group of students learning needs; Years 7-12. I have access to computers, IPad, Digital Projector, Internet the list goes on. E.g. Warm Ups are as a whole group on the whiteboard via the data projector and speakers. We have access to E-Books and Audio E-Books and programs like Reading Eggs for all ages.
abinyon on 07 Mar 17Hi Tamara I came across a really simple concept mapping site today, which is very quick and easy to use. Bubbl.us While the same activity can be done in the student's book, so it is not transformative, it is an easy and engaging activity. Many of the students I work with as a teacher aid (mainly ASD and II) love using the computer rather than drawing and writing by hand. They can then download and save their image to their computer or google drive for later use.
