Technology
As educators, it is our responsibility to give all students the opportunity to augment their education with as many tools as possible.
We, as teachers must use the technology available to us in developing the techniques necessary for our students to become functionally successful in today's community and tomorrow's world. In order to accomplish this goal, the guidelines stress engaged learning through a progression of skills to achieve higher order thinking skills and the importance of the teacher as a facilitator rather than as a master. The technology guidelines emphasize the use of the computer as a tool. Students are exposed to a diversity of ideas, procedures, critical thinking, problem solving and creative responses. The student learns the skills by doing meaningful activities that use the skill. When the student has the ability to assist peers in achieving a skill, the student has attained a greater degree of competency. The computer allows the student to become an active partner in the learning process.
Integrating the computer throughout the curriculum enables the students to easily transfer concepts and skills learned in one area, such as English language arts to any writing assignment in another part of the curriculum. Such integration focuses on the importance of the total education of the student, and requires the support and cooperation of the entire faculty.
Most educators agree that schools need to place an emphasis on higher order thinking skills and project-based learning. Perusing databases, manipulating spreadsheets, creating multimedia projects, and exploring web quests provide the medium for problem solving, engaged learning and empowering students. The teacher's role in the use of technology in education is multifaceted. The teacher should be a resource for the school community as they strive to meet the challenge of living in an ever-increasing world of technology. As the students become more proficient in the use of the computer, it is important that the teacher recognize that the computer provides an opportunity to enhance the learning in every curriculum area.
