6. Positive Effects on Attitudes
Increased Self Confidence and Self Esteem in all
Subject Areas
More Engaged and Active Listeners
Improved Attendance
Decline in Drop-out Rates
7.
8. Gains in
Standardized Tests
Problem Solving
Processes
Application of
Technology Tools
Transformation of
Information into
Knowledge
Development of
Critical Thinking Skills
Development of
Independent thinkers
Stimulation of Mind
9. Repletion and
Rehearsal
Note Taking Techniques
Paraphrasing
Outlining
Mapping Problem Solving Help
Pictorial Information Instructional Scaffolding
Student Centered
Learning
Learning Style Accommodation
Improvement in
Cognitive Strategies
10.
11. Apple Computer, Inc. (2002) The Impact of Technology on Student
Achievement.
Cradler, John, McNabb, Mary, Freeman Molly, and Richard Burchard.
(2002) How Does Technology Influence Student Learning. Learning &
Leading with Technology. Volume 29 Number 8.
Palozzi, Vincent J., and Terry E. Spradlin. (2006) Educational
Technology in Indiana: Is it Worth the Investment. Center for
Evaluation and Educational Policy. Volume 4 Number 4.
Ringstaff, Cathy and Loretta Kelly. (2002) The Learning Return on our
Educational Technology Investment. West Ed.
Roach, Patricia. (2005). What Research Says About Technology and
Academic Achievement. FUSD.
Software & Information Industry Association. (2001) 2000 Research
Report on the Effectiveness of Technology in Schools: Executive
Summary.
Editor's Notes
Listed here is the agenda for today’s presentation.
Through research that I have found all dated 2000 or newer, I have narrowed the my results into these 5 areas: Content Area Achievement, Students Motivation for Learning, Work Place Readiness, Higher Order Thinking, and Special Needs Populations. With each of these areas, I will provide ways in which the research states technology enhances learning.
First of all, research reminds us that technology generally improves performance when the application directly supports the curriculum. In mathematics, technology has been proven to aid in problem solving, conceptual understanding and experiential activities. Numerous studies document student understanding of mathematics concepts for using computer based and assisted software. Logo-programming, computer assisted instruction, and algebra and geometry software are among those effective in facilitating mathematics. In science, studies suggest the benefits of simulations, laboratories, and video anchor and enhance learning as well as target students’ misconceptions.
Secondly, the chart shown on this page shows the many ways in which technology enhances learning in reading and language arts. Even though this chart shows a continuum, this areas however have been put in no particular order.
In Language Arts, students need to develop their literacy skills now so they can meet the real world challenges of today’s work place. Students benefit greatly from the use of a word processor. Studies have shown they outperform their peers in the areas of writing assessments, content, organization, and language usage. Reading skills also benefit greatly from the use of technology as you can see.
Thirdly, educational technology has been found to have positive effects on students attitudes towards learning and student self-esteem. Students feel more successful in school, are more motivated to learn, and have increased self-confidence when using educational technology. All of these reasons lead to why there is improved attendance and declining dropout rates in schools.
Next, research shows that when students learn to use apply applications used in world of work, they acquire some of the prerequisite skills needed for workforce preparedness. When content and problem-solving strategies meet accepted academic standards, technology increases mastery of vocational and workforce skills and helps prepare students for work. Integration of technology with thematic and interdisciplinary projects can enhance workforce preparation. With industry and the service sector reliant on technology, it is important for our schools to prepare our students. As the world becomes more complex, the skills that students need to acquire and master are quickly changing. Students must be able to apply these skills in their academic and career endeavors.
Technology applications do provide valuable thinking skills. Research and evaluation shows that when students are taught to apply the processes of problem solving and then are allowed to apply technology tools, higher order thinking skills increase. Other research indicates that technology can enable the development of critical thinking skills when students use technology presentation and communication tools to present, publish, and share results of projects.
Listed on this page, are the many ways in which technology benefits the special need populations. Educational technology has significant positive effects on achievement for special needs populations. Technology offers educators to individualize and customize the educational needs of all so that they can reach their full potential. It also allows the presentation and assessment of the curriculum to be adjusted and compensated for specific disabilities through the use of assisted technologies. Research indicates there are positive outcomes for children with disabilities who have frequent encounters with technology. Technology can also provide the means to make inclusion possible and more effective.
Research is providing more and more clarity about how to use technology effectively within schools to support and enhance academic performance. The effectiveness of technology however depends on the match between the goals of instruction, characteristics of the learners, and the implementation decisions made by teachers and administration. The research is clear, students and teachers are best served if they have convenient, consistent, and frequent access to technology. Just having technology to have it will not produce results. However incorporating technology properly leads to the results listed in this presentation. I hope I have answered any questions pertaining to the effectiveness of technology in our schools. Thank you
