The document provides 10 strategies for integrating technology into social studies instruction: 1) adventure learning allows students to collaborate and study real-time events; 2) virtual field trips allow students to learn about other cultures; and 3) geocaching treasure hunts engage students in geography. It also discusses 4) simulated history experiences; 5) using webquests for current events research; 6) using geospatial technologies like Google Earth; 7) stock market simulations; 8) electronic storytelling; 9) VoiceThread for real-time collaboration; and 10) using digital cameras for diverse perspectives.

1. TOP 10 STRATEGIES FOR INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGY IN SOCIAL STUDIES INSTRUCTION

2. Adventure learningThis provides students with opportunities to collaborate with other students, teachers, and expertsUsing a research-based curriculum, they study authentic real-time adventures taking place around the world

3. Virtual field tripsWill help students learn about other cultures. The wealth of information available on the web allows students to study other lands and ways of life

4. Geocaching treasure huntswww.geocaching.comThese activities allow students to spend more time studying geographical information and techniques in a fun and engaging way

5. “Live through” historySimulated immersion experiences, such as Muzzy’s Lane, allow students to play the role of decision maker in historical situations to see the relevance of the event and to develop better problem-solving skills

6. WebquestsInternet research can help students learn about current events that have historical roots in past events and debates

7. Geospatial technologiesGoogle Earth, the most widely-known geospatial technology, allows for real-world analysis as students study content such as history, economics, and geography

8. Stock Market SimulationsStudents can learn economic principles with simulations games. They will better understand the complexities of the stock market by playing the role of stockbroker, investing “their” money, and seeing the return over time

9. Electronic storytellingStudents can watch history come alive and learn local and other history with images and audio that tell the stories of lives, events, or eras when preparing oral histories.

10. VoiceThreadUse software such as this to allows students to collaborate in real-time with numerous forms of content (photos, videos, pdfs, etc) and comment on each other’s work in an online learning environment

11. Digital CamerasAllows students to capture images from their vantage point, participate in the construction of knowledge, and learn how diverse perspectives can be shaped.Info from Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching 5e by Roblyer and Doering page 351