Rationale for Using Technology in Middle School
Several developmental theories substantiate the use of technology in the classroom.
In Erikson’s Psychosocial Stages of Development, middle school students would fall under two stages: Industry versus Inferiority and Identify versus Roles Confusion. The Industry versus Inferiority stage consists of ages six through twelve. Students in this stage are interested in developing new skills. They require praise and seek recognition. If they are not successful, they can develop feelings of incompetence and low self-esteem. Computer games and online simulations can help children build their confidence level and expand their interest in learning. In the Identify versus Roles Confusion stage, students 9 to 18 years old experience a sense of “self” in relation to life and the future. Since technology has become indispensable in most job industries, technology in the classroom can offer authentic learning experiences. In addition, online global collaborative projects can introduce students to the ideals of social responsibility and global awareness (Harder, 2002).
Middle school need to feel that they are successful. Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory explains that self-efficacy is one’s belief that a certain goal is obtainable. Technology allows students to comfortable with educational concepts and skills, allowing them to build self-efficacy and continue to build their academic skills (Wagner, 2008).
In addition, using the internet requires linguistic intelligence. According to Howard Gardner’s Multiple Intelligence theory, linguistic intelligence is the ability to understand and use language. Students browsing the internet, writing blogs, or contributing to a classroom website are enhancing their linguistic intelligence (Smith, 2008).
Other theories worth noting are Carl Jung's Introversion and Extroversion theory, Jerome Bruner’s research in the development of children, Benjamin Bloom’s Taxonomy, and the VAK learning styles model (not really a theory, but very interesting).
Technology Integration
There are many ways to incorporate technology in the classroom. If you are looking for a place to start, the following are some simple steps you can follow to launch the use of technology in your classroom.
1) Become familiar with ISTE’s National Educational Technology Standards
The simplest thing you can do is review the NETS. These six standards provide a list of the knowledge and skills students should acquire through technology use. In addition, the ISTE website offers a lesson plan template and technology profiles that exemplify activities for grades 6-8. ISTE’s Technology Implementation Course can assist new teachers (ISTE, 2008).
2) Evaluate current technology in your classroom
You need to be aware of the technology available in your classroom, as well as technology available in your campus. Knowing what you have available can give you ideas and allow you to create activities appropriate for your classroom.
3) Think of activities or lesson that satisfy NETS standards
Next, you need to think of activities or lessons that integrate technology. If you are a new teacher, do not worry. Several websites offer lesson plans and ideas. Just keep in mind the technology available in your classroom/campus.
4) Identify technology used by the teacher and students
Make sure that students have “hands on” opportunities. Many lesson plans utilize videos and PowerPoint presentations. These resources engage and motivate students, but lack authentic learning opportunities. The students need to learn how to use technology, not just the teacher.
5) Identify curriculum standards
Don’t forget to incorporate curriculum standards, such as the TEKS. Your principal and school district expects you to rationalize learning activities according to your state’s curriculum standards. This is not as difficult as it sounds. Most curriculum standards include technology strands, making it easier for teachers to incorporate technology.
6) Train students on technology use
Don’t assume that students in middle school know how to create a PowerPoint or write an email. It is important that you teach them how to use technology. This will give you an opportunity to communicate your expectations and prevent students from getting off task.
7) Modify activities for struggling learners and gifted students
Modifications have become an important part of classroom instruction. Students with special needs or learning difficulties need to be included in classroom activities. You can contact your school Special Education department for ideas and requirements. You can also create partially completed projects for students with learning difficulties. For example, create a sample PowerPoint presentation or a “fill in the blank” PowerPoint template for students that need additional assistance. This will give them confidence and allow them to complete the activity in the same amount of time as regular education students. Gifted students also need modified activities to prevent them from getting “bored” or off task. The STAR Tech website offers links to valuable information.
Examples of Technology in the Classroom
Click on the words to view examples or web resources.
Web Quests
According to WebQuest.org, a webquest is a "inquiry-oriented lesson format". Students have to interact with resources on the web. The teacher creates the lesson, suggests guiding questions, and offers links to resources. Students read the lesson information and follow the links to find answers/information (Dodge, 2007).
What is Web 2.0?
Web 2.0 is a term to describe the World Wide Web's movement towards user created content. Wikis and blogs have allowed internet users to construct and change the content of the internet. People can easily share ideas, images, and files over the internet. Students in the middle school classroom can use Web 2.0 applications to collaborate with other students and share their thoughts on various topics (Crawford, 2008). For more information, go to Resources page.
What is Collaboration 3.0?
According to the Basex.com website, Collaboration 3.0 is a new approach to "collaboration and knowledge sharing". It allows several organizations to collaborate on one topic or issue (Collaboration 3.0 Resources, 2008). In middle school education, Collaboration 3.0 allows students from different states or countries to collaborate and work together on large-scale projects. There are several websites that offer opportunities: iEARN.org, ePals.com, and GlobalSchoolNet.org.
Technology and Middle School
There are several issues regarding middle school and the use of technology: privacy/internet safety, assistive technology, and copyright laws. The security of student information has become a prevailing issue with the introduction of computers and internet in the classroom. Students may not be aware of the appropriate behavior or internet etiquette that is required. Students may be easily persuaded to divulge private information, such as an email address or phone number (Bennet, 2005). The Meridian Journal website offers articles on technology related issues.
Assistive technology is another concern. Under federal and state law, teachers must be aware of technologies available to students with disabilities. Assistive technology devices such as touch screens and screen readers allow students to participate in classroom instruction. In addition, websites must also adhere to accessibility standards (Foley, 2003).
Conclusion
Technology integration can be intimidating to some teachers. I hope this wiki gives you enough information to feel confident and become successful in the classroom. If you try any suggestions, please feel free to write comments on the bottom of the pages. Thank you for being part of the Middle School eDUCATION community.
Resources
You can praticipate in this wiki by sharing resources in the collaboration pages. A list of links to information and all cited sources can be found in the "Resources" page.
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