Teaching+with+technology+-Week+2

This week I have gained new knowledge on strategies to implement into the classroom that impact student learning. This week has given much insight on how students with technology can use word processing applications/ communication software, organizing/ brainstorming software, data collection tools/ web resources. The above listed software can be used for setting instructional objectives. ( Pitler, 17-22 ). I use the basic word processor for creating my own lesson plans weekly but have not tried some of the features that can be used for creating graphic organizers. Research has shown the positive impact that technology has played upon students by keeping them engaged, taking charge of their own learning and student-centered/individualized instruction. There was research done on 4th and 8th grade students that gave positive results on standardized tests/National test when students had access to: Design and programming technologies, simulation and software that taught higher order thinking and collaborative networked technologies (Schacter, 7-9). All research that has taken place across our schools nationally has proven that technology is the key to our 21st century student’s future. This week I learned about Universal Design for Learning (UDL) supports differentiated instruction. This can be done by teachers who individualize criteria for students, teachers who can individualize teaching methods and teachers who can individualize students’ expression. UDL’s philosophy is that teachers will have to rethink goals, assessments, materials and methods. We have many diverse learners in our classroom and educators have to meet the needs of all students in various ways that are meaningful to them. Educators will need to understand how students learn and research has shown that the brain process information differently. The outlook for UDL is that it will focus on meeting the needs for all diverse groups.