ICT in the Classroom
ICT's (Information and Communication Technologies) are all around us. Our students are interacting and engaging with them on a daily basis in ways such as browsing the internet, using iPhones, typing on a computer or watching a YouTube video. It is up to teachers to support this learning and use technology to enhance our students literacy skills.
" Technology in the classroom...can be motivational. Teachers have found that using computers, digital media, and other computer-related technologies can capture students attention and improve student outcomes." (Shelly, Gunter, Gunter, 2010, p.11).
" Technology in the classroom...can be motivational. Teachers have found that using computers, digital media, and other computer-related technologies can capture students attention and improve student outcomes." (Shelly, Gunter, Gunter, 2010, p.11).
Children love to use technology, they feel comfortable and confident with these devices so it makes sense to incorporate them into our lesson plans.
Technology is 'multi sensory', it allows the words to come to life. Books are no longer limited to paper. Students can now see, read, hear, manipulate and interact with their favourite story.
Technology is 'multi sensory', it allows the words to come to life. Books are no longer limited to paper. Students can now see, read, hear, manipulate and interact with their favourite story.
Our Classroom and ICT
The students in Year 2 at Coast Primary are using ICT's regularly to improve and enhance their literacy skills. We use SMART Boards, computers, e-books, videos, digital storytelling and safe internet sites. The students are also involved in the schools Skype program and as a result we've had a great time exploring the capabilities and functions of video conferencing. There is also an iPad (loaded with educational applications) available for students to use during free time with teacher supervision.
As we are exploring our world in this unit, we will use Google Earth to 'fly over' any countries we encounter in our lessons. This assists the students in locating the country in comparison to their school, while also stimulating previous knowledge or experiences.
The students are learning skills for their future. By interacting with ICT's they know how to;
- Recognise and locate information in a variety of formats.
- Create digital information as well as use it.
- Build on their existing knowledge and experiences as they explore their world through ICT's such as Google Earth.
- Engage in active self directed learning.
- Increase their self efficacy and confidence with technology.
- And most of all.....have fun!!
