Module+2


 * Description**:

It was interesting to read about the TPACK model during this module because it described an educational model where technology, pedagogy, and content intersect to create valuable student learning experiences. In the era of high-stakes testing, our schools have become very focused on content. Everything had to relate to content, content, content... In one school that I taught in, everyone had to incorporate math, reading, and science into their lessons. Many educators were upset about this because they felt that it meant more work. In reality, it meant making cross-curricular connections to content.

With the adoption of the Common Core, many teachers have found that they are more flexible to focus on pedagogy. For example, one of my graduate students in Maryland has used the idea of open number lines to teach students addition and subtraction. She recently took a graduate course with me in Universal Design for Learning. This pedagogical model is based on brain research from cast, which states that students need to utilize their 3 brain networks to make connection with content. This is accomplished by providing multiple means of representation, action/expression, and engagement. I have been utilizing UDL in my classroom for several years and when I approach other teachers about doing the same, it is met with resistance. Why? Because once again, they feel that it is more work.


 * Impact**:

Enter TPACK, which not only emphasizes content and pedagogy, but also emphasizes technology integration. Technology is changing the way that we do everything, so doesn't it make sense to change the way that we teach as well? I think that we may be forgetting who our customer is...the student. For many years, we did have the luxury to say to students and parents, who felt that their needs weren't being met, to be quiet or move to another district. With the rise of cyberschools, charter schools, and heavy government regulation, we no longer have the luxury of burying our heads in the sand.

If we can infuse content, pedagogy, and technology into how we teach, it not only will transform our aging academic system, but it will change the way that our students perform in the work-force.


 * Intent**:

I have always implemented technology into my lesson plans and curriculum, but I have never made the connection that TPACK makes. I used technology as a way to engage students and provide another way of seeing a topic, but I never used technology because it was the right tool for the job. I think part of me is leery about using too much technology, because part of me still wants to use paper and pencil. After thinking about it, I want to adopt of philosophy from a quote I heard in the video clip below. A teacher from a high-tech charter school was quoted as saying, "we use technology when it is the most appropriate tool. When it isn't the most appropriate tool, we put it away." media type="custom" key="23887572" align="center"