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This definitions draws a lot on the history of TPACK with Shulman but breaks it down very nicely at the end of the article. Excerpt: "Doering, Scharber, Miller and Veletsianos (2009) reference a doctoral paper produced by Cox (2008). Through this paper, Cox identifies over 89 definitions of TPACK. Through these definitions, Cox creates an expansive definition of the true nature of TPACK: TPACK is the knowledge of the dynamic, transactional negotiation among technology, pedagogy, and content and how that negotiation impacts student learning in a classroom context. The essential features are (a) the use of appropriate technology (b) in a particular content area (c) as part of a pedagogical strategy (d) within a given educational context (e) to develop students' knowledge of a particular topic or meet an educational objective or student need. (p. 317)"

The article "What is TPACK" most certainly gave me a better grasp on the framework as well. What stood out to me the most was the following statement: "The essential features are (a) the use of appropriate technology (b) in a particular content area (c) as part of a pedagogical strategy (d) within a given educational context (e) to develop students' knowledge of a particular topic or meet an educational objective or student need." I think this statement beautifully ties all the concepts and shows how important it is to connect these concepts. This reminds me of our STEM discussions and how in order for it to be effective all four disciplines had to be integrated, not isolated. I think TPACK is making the same statement loud and clear. We need to develop ideas to connect all three components as oppose to focusing on them individually. I think the "Tpack(age)" can strike some teachers as very inspirational and others with a feeling of change and overwhelming. I am glad to see that more and more districts are starting to introduce and rely on this framework, which will definitely help it become a future trend. However, in some cases it upsets me that some teachers are so close-minded to change. Don't get me wrong-I know that in some instances it may be a huge learning curve but having an open mind to the concept can at least instigate more support for the TPACK framework (which could include funding, proper training, etc.).

My view: The increasing necessity for STEM education Print Font [+] [-] 11 Comments » By Sidharth Oberoi For the Deseret News Published: Thursday, Feb. 20 2014 12:00 a.m. MST Share71 Share52 Tweet4 0 0 A closer look at U.S. unemployment statistics shows that even with unemployment still at historically high levels, large numbers of jobs are going unfilled. Most of these jobs have one very important thing in common - the need for STEM education. Shutterstock Enlarge photo» Summary A closer look at U.S. unemployment statistics shows that even with unemployment still at historically high levels, large numbers of jobs are going unfilled. Most of these jobs have one very important thing in common - the need for STEM education. There is a distinct educational disconnect that we need to resolve today. 1 The real word application of science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM, is increasingly important in the workforce while science and technology are becoming less emphasized in today's classrooms. The ability for students to gain access to the critical skills these subjects offer is critically important as the future workforce is projected to be dominated by those possessing technology and science skills over the next several decades.

Computer coding is important to including STEM in education. This skill should be included in early education and it should build with each level of curriculum.

It just goes to prove that active teaching is essential in all subject areas, not just those involving STEM. Students need to be taught critical thinking skills, not just memorization of facts.