Some may beg the question, “Why should we integrate technology into a math classroom when the students struggle to learn the math?” Well, as a high school math teacher I would simply answer that the technology is not adding to what they need to learn but it is a useful tool in enhancing the learning process. When integrated properly technology can allow advancements never thought possible. It allows students to experience real world problems and simulations that they cannot experience through a textbook. According to an Edutopia article “Effective technology integration is achieved when the use of technology is routine and transparent and when technology supports curricular goals.” (2008) This point is so vital to the successful integration of technology. We cannot simply purchase computers and tech gadgets for our schools and call it technology in the classroom. We must provide our students with the skills to use these tools to create a more interactive learning environment.
In a pencil/paper math classroom the types of problems, that we as teachers are able to present to the students, are limited. “Some problems are too hard to be posed in a pencils-only classroom. Some lessons require students to experiment with certain mathematical objects and see how they respond. Some require visual representations — graphs, diagrams, geometric figures, moving images — that respond to students’ questions, answers, or commands. Computers can provide interactive ‘virtual manipulatives’ where physical devices do not exist.” (Goldenburg, 2000) Some people argue that students must first learn basic math facts and that technology has no place during this stage of learning. I beg to differ. During this stage of learning (knowledge or recall stage) computer technologies can be used in place of the monotonous routine of drill and practice. Instead, students can practice using computer math games, or math software, that creates a competitive and fun way to practice basic skills.
I feel that the real challenge of incorporating technology into our math classrooms is deciding what tech tools are right for our students and their cognitive level. The advantages of incorporating technology certainly outweigh the risks (mostly being financial). Technology gives our students: 1.) Real life simulations 2.) opportunity to see 3-D representations 3.) and most importantly – the chance to make math fun again! Students and some adults alike are terrified of mathematics. By using technology as a teaching/learning tool we can incorporate something they enjoy and are familiar with which will help make the “math” part a little less scary. I know it may be a little more time consuming and a little more costly, but the education of our nation’s youth is worth it. Technology provides us with the latest tools to make learning effective and enjoyable. Lee Iacocca once said, “”In a completely rational society, the best of us would be teachers and the rest of us would have to settle for something less, because passing civilization along from one generation to the next ought to be the highest honor and the highest responsibility anyone could have.” Teaching is an honor, and we should treat it as such by putting forth our best efforts and wholeheartedly diving into the new generation of learning.
References:
Goldenburg, E. P. (n.d.). Thinking (and talking) about technology in math classrooms. Issues in Math Education. Retrieved July 23, 2012, from www2.edc.org/mcc/pdf/iss_tech.pdf
Roblyer, M. D., & Doering, A.H. (2012). Integrating educational technology into teaching (6th ed.). Pearson.
Why integrate technology into the curriculum?: The reasons are many | Edutopia. (2008, March 16). K-12 Education & Learning Innovations with Proven Strategies that Work | Edutopia. Retrieved July 23, 2012, from http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction
JennieFinafrock: EDTECH Portfolio 