Without a doubt, technology has introduced new access levels to vast resources that can aid a teacher in the classroom. Students also have access to these resources. Whether it is an online collaboration tool like Popplet, or a drill and practice gaming site like Math Playground, there are many opportunities in all content areas to use technology in the classroom.
With the inclusion of technology tools and the internet, new literacies have emerged that many feel are essential curriculum components. These new literacies are referred to as digital literacy and information literacy. Roblyer and Doering (2012) define digital literacy as “skills in using the information that technological devices carry, in addition to skills in using the devices themselves.” (p. 267) Information literacy is the set of skills that enable individuals to be proficient in locating, evaluating, and using information. (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p.268) Information literacy encompasses not only seeking information using technological devices, but also includes resources such as books, encyclopedias, and magazines.
In addition to helping students develop their traditional literacy skills such as reading, writing, and math skills, digital and information literacies also need to be be considered. Using technology in the content areas will support and supplement instruction of all literacies and over time will appear to go hand in hand. Educators really cannot ignore that students and individuals receive information, as well as create information, in diverse forms that include blogs, vlogs, wikis, tweets, streaming video, and emails. (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p. 268) But, if students cannot read or write, how will they be able to participate ethically and coherently in the 21st century worlds?
There are many relative advantages for using technology in the content area, many of which have already been addressed in previous blog posts. Teaching and reinforcing digital and information literacies across the curriculum will aid the students in internalizing the technology skill set necessary to succeed in the 21st century. Whether it is a drill and practice program, a simulation explaining blood flow, a resource with historical primary sources, or a program that has audio built into an ebook, technology provides resources to incorporate new, interactive strategies to encourage our students to read and write.
Reference
Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2012). Integrating educational technology into teaching. (6 ed.). Prentice Hall.
With the inclusion of technology tools and the internet, new literacies have emerged that many feel are essential curriculum components. These new literacies are referred to as digital literacy and information literacy. Roblyer and Doering (2012) define digital literacy as “skills in using the information that technological devices carry, in addition to skills in using the devices themselves.” (p. 267) Information literacy is the set of skills that enable individuals to be proficient in locating, evaluating, and using information. (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p.268) Information literacy encompasses not only seeking information using technological devices, but also includes resources such as books, encyclopedias, and magazines.
In addition to helping students develop their traditional literacy skills such as reading, writing, and math skills, digital and information literacies also need to be be considered. Using technology in the content areas will support and supplement instruction of all literacies and over time will appear to go hand in hand. Educators really cannot ignore that students and individuals receive information, as well as create information, in diverse forms that include blogs, vlogs, wikis, tweets, streaming video, and emails. (Roblyer & Doering, 2012, p. 268) But, if students cannot read or write, how will they be able to participate ethically and coherently in the 21st century worlds?
There are many relative advantages for using technology in the content area, many of which have already been addressed in previous blog posts. Teaching and reinforcing digital and information literacies across the curriculum will aid the students in internalizing the technology skill set necessary to succeed in the 21st century. Whether it is a drill and practice program, a simulation explaining blood flow, a resource with historical primary sources, or a program that has audio built into an ebook, technology provides resources to incorporate new, interactive strategies to encourage our students to read and write.
Reference
Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A. H. (2012). Integrating educational technology into teaching. (6 ed.). Prentice Hall.