Apps in the Classroom

Academic Language: language vocabulary needed for this module:

· Pedagogy

When reflecting on Hattie's synthesis of research and the  Influences on Student Achievement document, technology is found to have a strong influence on student achievement:

· Interactive video methods – .54

· Technology in other subjects – .55

· Technology in writing – .42

· Technology with elementary students – .44

· Technology with learning needs students – .57

· Intelligent tutoring systems – .48

· Information communication technology – .47

Think that integrating technology into the classroom will only distract students?

Think again. Since students are already interested in technology, teachers can harness that attention for educational purposes. Incorporating the internet, laptops, tablets, and even smartphones in the curriculum have many benefits for teachers and students alike.

1. Engages students and creates active learners.

Using a computer, tablet, or other device encourages self-directed learning and creates an active participant in the learning process, rather than the passive learners found in a lecture environment. Interactive lesson plans can help turn "boring" conceptual subjects like math and science into fun, engaging, and educational activities for students.

2. Encourages individual learning and growth.

No one learns in the same way or at the same pace, but technology can level-set the classroom. By having this additional teaching coach in the class or at home, technology can motivate and honor each child's learning needs. Teachworthy does not believe technology is the solution to differentiated learning needs.  However, it does support "blended learning" environments.

3. Facilitates peer collaboration.

· What is the appropriate technology and software to use with your students?

· How to ensure honesty in use and respect for the equipment

· How technology enhanced the curriculum

· What benefits technology does for instruction and assessment of a lesson?

"An easy way to introduce technology is to start small. Try using a document camera to project textbook images on a screen, or introduce a website a week that corresponds with your lesson plan. The point is not to let technology take over your classroom, but to integrate it and let it enhance your instruction."

Capella University. (2017, May). 5 Reasons to Incorporate Technology into your Classroom.

Where should I start?

Start with Bloom's Taxonomy!  You can find many educational apps that correlate to verbs/actions of Bloom's taxonomy.

Allan Carrington has taken Bloom's verbs and aligned them with technology apps to achieve the desired action.  Most of the apps that you will see mentioned in this activity have a DEMO video on YouTube – so if you are not sure what an app is or what it does, feel free to search for a demo video to get an overview.

Padagogy Wheel