Discussion Questions Feb. 16

The discussion questions for today are listed below. The PowerPoint presentation is posted under Team Wiki Address.

1. The authors define technology integration as the use of computing devices for instructional purposes. Other definitions mentioned are:
a. Technology integration is examined as types of teacher's computer use in the classroom.
b. Technology integration is examined in how teachers use technology to carry out familiar activities more reliably and productively.
c. Technology integration is examined in how teachers use technology to develop students' thinking skills.
Why do we have to clarify the definition of technology integration? What is technology's purpose in your classroom?

2. All of us agree with the barriers listed in the article with the barriers of resources, knowledge/skills, and institution as the top barriers:
resources (40%), knowledge/skills (23%), attitudes/beliefs (13%), institution(14%), subject culture (2%), assessment (5%)
Do you agree with the listed frequency order? Are there any barriers you would add to this list? What is the most influential barrier for you and your technology use?

3. Why have many teachers not been exposed to transformative technology-supported pedagogy? What are the preconditions for a successful transformative technology-supported pedagogy?

4. As a principal, what strategies do you think you can apply to overcome the barriers for technology integration in your school setting? As a teacher, what strategies do you think you can apply to be able to integrate technology in your class?

5. Although not listed explicitly in the article, do you think lack of proper training in technology pedagogy is a huge barrier for all teachers? If you were a pre-service training designer, what would you think you can do to design pre-service training?

6. People complain a lot about lack of funding and technology as a couple of the biggest barriers. Do you think the strategies suggested in the article are feasible solutions to overcoming these barriers (hybrid cheaper computer system, introducing technology into 1 or 2 subject areas at a time, using laptops with wireless connections to save building and maintenance costs of computer labs)?

7. Based on your own experience, share some of your own strategies in overcoming the barriers listed in the article (resources, knowledge/skills, institution, attitude/beliefs, assessment, subject culture.)

Wrap Up Questions (time allowing):

• What are some examples of "bad" technology integration and "good" technology integration you have witnessed firsthand?
• Think about your own subject culture. How you do realistically see yourself using technology in the classroom?