Chapter 11 discusses technology in relation to both science and math. For both subjects, the text suggests ways that a teacher could integrate strategies related to technology with either math or science instruction. I liked how the text suggested using technology as a way to access virtual manipulatives. When I took the early childhood math course, my instructor introduced the class to a website that had manipulatives for just about everything you could need. We used the website for base blocks when we were learning to count in different bases other than 10. It was really neat because we were able to pull the website, the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives, up on the smart board. Since it was on the smart board we were able to move the base blocks around and work on problems together as a class. The website allows you to enter your own problems in, or it will give you problems to solve.
I think that technology can very easily be integrated into science instruction. There are a number of different microscopes that can be used in classrooms. Microscopes are used all the time for science. Also, using the Internet to take virtual field trips could be really fun in a science class. A lot of students learn better if they can see what they are trying to learn. By being able to pull up videos or simulations using the Internet, students could gain a much better understanding of content while having more fun than just listening to lecture. Integrating technology into any instruction can be pretty easy with the vast amount of technology there is today. Learning what resources teachers can use and how to use them will be very helpful for the future.
I agree science and math go hand in hand with technology. That website is a great place for students who might feel overwhelmed by the hands on manipulatives. It is great to have multiple options for students who learn in different ways. Science also has many tools that can be used. The electronic microscopes are great and I find that they are really helpful for people with glasses because you don't have to take them off to look at what you are examining.
ReplyDelete