Introduction
Purpose and Problem:
Entering the 21st century, many educational professionals are rethinking how students learn and teachers teach. One approach to rethinking education is by creating interdisciplinary learning and providing authentic learning experiences with an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, known as STEM. Another approach to 21st century learning is to implement digital schools and one-to-one classrooms. Society’s changing views of technology requires curriculum to change as well. Integrating technology in interdisciplinary learning at an elementary level enhances learning and prepares students by providing 21st century skills. Most recently, STEM, the understanding that science, technology, engineering, and math all go together emerged as a priority in education. All the while, English language arts, and reading (ELAR) are implemented separately. ELAR directly relates to STEM as well because students are reading, writing, listening, speaking, viewing, and presenting while participating in STEM curriculum. Technology helps connect fragmented pieces of curriculum, bridge gaps, and makes education more accessible to all learners. The idea of teaching all content areas while providing students with authentic learning experiences shapes them into more well-rounded individuals with a desire to become lifelong learners. Based on a constructivist theory of teaching, cognitive science research, and sound pedagogy, students benefit from integrating technology in interdisciplinary learning.
Research Foundations
Theoretical Foundations
Philosophical. A school’s philosophy serves as an initial framework in which educators make decisions for curriculum implementation. Philosophy provides the c...
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...they reach their students. Integrating technology is one more way to provide varied approach to learning in an effort to reach all students.
Works Cited
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It is very hard not to realize that technology has overpowered education in many ways. “Technology integration is similar to a tidal wave, growing silently in strength, then falling with an unstoppable roar upon those who paid no attention or showed little interest” (Guhlin, 40). Nowadays, computers are almost considered a necessity in the classroom, and are the main component of technology integration. Computers are being used in more numerous ways, besides only being used for basic word processing. With a simple computer, copious availabilities of technologies can be used in the classroom. “The one thing that is so great about the computer is that it does give a lot of instruction--and you don't need to have hearing to take advantage of it” (Anderson, 12). It’s amazing how one simple screen can provide everlasting opportunity for learning.
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When reviewing the literature regarding the past, present and future of educational curriculum, several main points seem apparent, namely that curriculum is cyclical, that a dilemma or paradox exists, and that curriculum must be looked at with a sensitive view.
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As an emerging teacher, it has come to my concern the potential benefits and or harm technology has on young children. By the end of the 1980’s one out of every 4 preschool rooms had a computer, today almost every preschool is equipped with at least one computer. Children over the age of 3 are within Piaget’s preoperational stage. This states that they are concrete learners that are interest in and pick up on newly learned symbolic representation easily (Wardle, 2008). However children at this age ne...
When analyzing contemporary issues in education, it is very important to ask why and how the issues arise. Some of these problems are obvious to the mass public, and some require a more in-depth analysis. One of the less obvious issues in education is the current philosophy in the classrooms. One may ask the questions, “Why is the philosophy of education important? And, why does it matter to me?” To put it simply, the philosophy imbedded in the goals of education and teaching methods in a classroom affects the students’ futures. This topic was chosen because the philosophy in schools is often overlooked as the absolute core of educational issues. Many students understandably struggle with sitting in a classroom, uninterested. In addition to the constant stress and pressure of having good grades, students often ask why the given curriculum must be learned.
Curriculum is important being it’s the underlying factor that plays a role in determining ones growth, achievement and success. The majority of curriculum con...
Since then, Basic Principles of Curriculum and Instruction has been a standard reference for anyone working with curriculum development. Although not a strict how-to guide, the book shows how educators can critically approach curriculum planning, studying progress and retooling when needed. Its four sections focus on setting objectives, selecting learning experiences, organizing instruction, and evaluating progress. Readers will come away with a firm understanding of how to formulate educational objectives and how to analyze and adjust their plans so that students meet the objectives. Tyler also explains that curriculum planning is a continuous, cyclical process, an instrument of education that needs to be fine-tuned.
Whether technological integration has positive or negative impacts on teaching and learning has been paid increasing attention and a numerous research has done to explore the issue. Regarding the issue, the question of if training teachers in the use of technology in classrooms contributes to students’ outcomes is still an endless argument. This essay will explain two reasons why such training brings about positive academic achievements for learners and a number of training guidelines that can be followed.
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