Clements (1998) advises teachers to "use computer software and applications that can be extended, for long periods of time, across topics, to engage students in meaningful problems and projects, rather than providing a variety of applications with no internal coherence."
What technology tools seem likely to meet these criteria?
Describe how teachers can use technology tools to support the new emphasis on hands-on learning in science.
Technology is a great supporting tool to use while teaching mathematics. We have to be careful that we use it as a mathematical tool rather than a pedagogical tool. There are many ways we can integrate technology while teaching mathematics. Among the many technology integration tools are the computer software problem solving programs that the students can use such as the examples given in the book (Thinkin' Things and Zoombinis). There are also applications that can be used to assist the student in comprehending the subject. Powerpoint is an example of an application that will help the student understand math because many times visuals help the student have a better understanding of the many abstract math concepts. The teacher can also use virtual manipulatives which support hands-on activities for learning mathematics such as Manipula Math with Java that can be accessed at http://www.ies.co.jp/math/java/index.html, along with many other virtual manipulatives that can be found in the text book on page 320. Another technology tool that supports mathematics are calculators. Calcualtors are somewhat of a controversial topic but my opinion is that as long as they are used moderately and only when absolutely necessary then it is okay. What I don't agree with is that the teacher let the students depend on this tool. The study of mathematics has existed for centuries and if our ancestors were able to solve problems without a calculator, since they didn't exist in their time, then we can also do the same.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment