Foundations of Teaching with Technology

The goal of this course is to provide participants with a foundational knowledge of how to effectively create and teach in a technology-rich classroom environment. The first half of the course is an examination of the relationship between students and technology, how it impacts learning (both positively and negatively), and the evolving roles and skill sets required of teachers in order to leverage technology to meet the needs of their students. Once this framework is established, participants will begin an exploration of a variety of web-based tools and mobile applications, evaluating the potential impact that each could have in their classrooms.

In the final project, participants will put the knowledge and skills gained throughout the course to use in order to outline an instructional unit that thoughtfully incorporates several technology tools The unit plan will demonstrate the participant’s knowledge of the tools, implementation strategies, and best practices explored throughout the course, as well as an understanding of the unique learning styles, needs, and challenges of his or her students. It will conclude with a reflection of the participant’s own teaching philosophy and practices, and what, if any, adjustments they may need to make to effectively deliver the instructional unit.

Objectives

As a result of this course, participants will:

• Evaluate the potential for technology-enriched instruction to engage and teach today’s learners.  
• Explore the impact of the Digital Divide on student learning and classroom instruction.
• Define the role of the teacher in creating and managing a technology-rich classroom environment.
• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of implementing various web- and application-based technologies in the classroom.
• Integrate a variety of web-based tools and mobile applications into an instructional unit.