The Power of Technology

Promote Passion

Use the power of technology to differentiate by promoting a passion for learning.

A primary focus of the Common Core is literacy in all its forms. The popular novel Pride and Prejudice and Zombies can be read on paper or as an interactive eBook and has an iPhone/iPad app that follows the story and enhances the fun. Learn more by watching the App Trailer.

Virtual manipulatives provide students with a unique way to practice and communicate understandings. Exploriments are simulation-based interactives that enhance conceptual understanding of science and math. Students explore and experiment with concepts. For instance, the equations interactive provides an introduction to Algebraic Equations using a pan balance and assorted objects.

Do science. Record science. Share science. You smile, you learn.

Make real-world connections that students find interesting and motivating. Get the Math is a multimedia project about algebra in the real world focusing on math in music, fashion, and video games.

Using technology in the classroom shouldn't be complicated or time-consuming. Instead, it should provide resources and tools that empower learners. For some child, a time-lapse video is what they need to learn.

Help our students find the power of of learning. Use all the resources and tools available. Don't toss the markers because you have computers. Technology won't solve all your problems. It simply extends your powers by providing options and opportunities. Explore the power of possibilities.

Differentiate through technology with attention to affective aspects and the importance of life-long learning.

Conclusion

Let's review five powerful ways to differentiate through the use of technology by examining the use of the PBS NewsHour Student Reporting Labs project:

Plan - Use the power of technology to differentiate by organizing resources in meaningful ways to meet learner needs and interests.
Present - Use the power of technology to differentiate by reaching multiple learner senses through multimedia experiences.
Process - Use the power of technology to differentiate by extending the choices and tools for communication.
Produce - Use the power of technology to differentiate by providing a variety of options for sharing student understandings.
Promote Passion - Use the power of technology to differentiate by promoting a passion for learning.

"Life-long learners choose to seek out new ideas and alternative perspectives. They embrace our changing, dynamic, information-rich society by keeping their senses active and their minds full of ideas" (Lamb. 2012 Life-long Learning)