Benefits of Technology Integration
In this introductory activity, participants will examine and discuss the value
of using technology to teach English language arts content. Integrating
technology into the English language arts classroom allows for more
learner-centered practices where the students develop their own meanings and
draw on their past experiences. Integrating technology into the classroom
allows for more student individualization of work and for more creativity and
access to information.
Ask participants to consider their own purposes for using technology and to list
three to five reasons they use technology at work or at home. Possible
responses may include communication, entertainment, research, etc.
Next, ask participants to think about the role of technology in English language
arts instruction. Ask participants to describe how technology can be integrated
into their instruction by completing the
Teaching with Technology Chart. Participants should be organized into
small groups for this activity. Allow time for each group to share their
responses.
As a follow-up to the small group discussions, have participants to read and
respond to one of the articles available in the COR collection.