Larson and Lockee stated “technology should always be used
to meet a specific instructional need” (p.184, 2014). Learners are more willing
to embrace technology when they feel it makes their learning easier and more
productive. As a technology coordinator/coach it is part of my job to find
technology to help enhance teaching and learning. I have tested hundreds of
programs and hardware for the classroom. Larson and Lockee state that there are
four purposes in education for technology (2014). Using technology for
productivity, learning from, about, and with technology. Educators use some
form of technology in everything they do. Using technology as a productivity tool
such as email, grading, and assessments is something that all teachers do.
When developing training, choose the technology that supports
the learning (Peterson, 2016). The smooth integration of technology into any
training makes the learner more likely to be open to the technology. I have
experienced many trainings where the technology was being forced to fit the
content. Technology should be a tool that makes the learning more successful. Please
check out this Ted Talk on technology in the classroom.
There are so many choices when researching technology to use
in education. A program that I have not used but feel would add to a training
is Padlet. Padlet can be used as an assessment tool, collaboration tool, or a
reflection tool. This online bulletin board gives learners the opportunity to
share ideas with other learners. I think this program would be beneficial in a
training to get all participants involved. Padlet is free and easy to use. Please watch the video below on uses
for Padlet in education. Please visit the other resources below about technology for use in the classroom.
Horn, B. (2014, February 08).
Padlet's Many Uses for the Classroom. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com
Larson, M. B., & Lockee,
B. B. (2014). Streamlined ID: A
practical guide to instructional design. New York: Routledge, Taylor & Francis Group.
Peterson, T., & CDW.
(2016, June 22). Technology Starts with Professional Development and Training.
Retrieved from https://edtechmagazine.com
T. (2015, April 02).
Technology in the classroom | Ethan Dickens | TEDxPascoCountySchoolsED.
Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com
