"Current IT trends Innovative ways to keep updated" Using technology to find and represent educational problems। One
major challenge for teachers interested in problem-based learning is
locating problems that are appropriate for their students and for the
topics that they need to learn. Problems must be complex enough to
support sustained exploration and encourage collaboration, and they
should have multiple interrelated parts to develop students' ability
to break problems down and organize their solutions. Representing and
communicating such complex problem situations is an important function
of technology. Unlike problems that occur in the real world,
technology can incorporate graphics, video, animation, and other tools
to create problems that can be explored repeatedly. Multimedia
representations are easier to understand than problems presented as
text.
*Microworlds are another type of technology used to present problems.
One example is
Thinkertools, a computer-based learning environment
that simulates aspects of Newtonian physics.
*Internet and videoconferencing technology allow students to
participate in projects sponsored by researchers around the world. In
the Jason Project, satellite and Internet technology bring classroom
students into direct real-time contact with leading scientists,
conducting scientific research expeditions around the globe.
Using technology to find educational resources. A second function of
technology in problem-based learning environments is locating
information needed to solve problems or do other kinds of research. In
the past, teachers attempting a problem-based curriculum felt the need
to limit problems to those for which they had expertise or the local
library had resources. Now the World Wide Web brings a seemingly
endless amount of information on almost any subject, and it is
possible for students to choose topics based on personal interest
rather than availability of resources.
Using technology to summarize and present findings. In the past,
students memorized and used formulas and models created by others to
solve problems. Students often used these formulas, especially in the
early stages of learning, with little understanding. In the early
twenty-first century computer tools provide the opportunity for
students to construct and test their own models using tools such as
spreadsheets or concept maps. This type of instruction deepens
students' understanding of abstract concepts and allows these concepts
to be taught at an earlier age.
Using technology for collaboration and distance education. There are
many opportunities for individual students to use technology to
enhance their learning. These include online courses that provide
students in remote locations with opportunities for customized
curriculum and advanced placement courses. These courses are conducted
entirely online and offer asynchronous interaction among faculty and
students. Because they allow students to participate anytime and from
anywhere, online courses are becoming increasingly popular among
postsecondary students whose job and personal commitments do not allow
them to meet a regular class schedule.
Teachers' Integration of Technology in Instruction Although
ICT is creating opportunities for fundamental changes in
the way teachers teach and the way students learn, a recent survey
indicated that only one-third of teachers feel prepared to use it
effectively. This includes being able to use word processing,
spreadsheet, presentation, and Internet browsing software. Such tools
help teachers increase their productivity by preparing reports or
lesson plans, taking notes, and communicating with colleagues and
parents. These basic skills are necessary, but not sufficient, for
creating changes in instruction. Changes require that teachers are
familiar with ICT tools and materials in the subjects they teach. They
must also be able to incorporate these resources into classroom
activities that accomplish important learning goals.
Future Trends Advances in hardware and software have the potential to bring
about fundamental changes in how technology is integrated and even in
education itself. Computers formerly tethered to desktops by cables
are being rapidly replaced by wireless laptop and palmtop models that
free students to move about the school; collect, share, and graph data
on field trips; and communicate their whereabouts and progress to
teachers and parents.