Framework for Integrating Technology in the Classroom

Watching the video in class, I noticed four ethical uses of technology in the classroom. The teacher demonstrated: use of the operating system, instructional software, ethical use of software and use of technology in society. All four areas are not only important in the classroom, but are important in the “real” world as well.

Use of the operating system seems simplistic (and maybe it is), however the inability to use an operating system can cause a lot of problems. The video showed the teacher demonstrating to the class where to save their file. As the teacher mentioned, just reducing the screen to work on the file later is a recipe to have the file closed or deleted without saving. In the classroom that means lost homework, research or essays; however, in the business world that can mean not only the loss of a file, but the loss of a customer and quite possibly your job. I know from previous experience that it is not a lot of fun having to search for a file over 4 different drives.

Ethical use of software and technology is a topic that I don’t think gets discussed enough. Coming from a printing and graphic background I have a lot of experience in the manipulation of the content and color of files and photos.  I don’t think enough people stop to think about the ramification of file manipulation (especially image manipulation), but there are generations of women trying to achieve a look that can only be achieved through Photoshop. Would women push themselves so hard if they were aware of the manipulation that goes on?

As teachers, the instructional use of software becomes a balance between being a teacher and facilitator. I’ve sat through instructional software classes and though the teacher can show students the “basics” of using a program like Photoshop or InDesign for instance, it is really up to the student to explore and experiment to fully discover what is possible with a software program. At this point a teacher is more of a facilitator – more of a reference guide for the student who asks questions as they encounter new problems.

I think it is important for students to realize the practical applications of anything they do in the classroom. In the video the teacher discussed how a previous student was able to use their knowledge to get a job in journalism (I believe). It’s a good motivational tool for students when they know the purpose for what is expected out of them. Though I don’t believe anyone should pick a career just based off of money, the fact is most people who decide to pursue either college or a technical trade do so based off of a monetary promise. If a student knows there is money to be made, I think this is another factor to help promote further learning.

Technology is a powerful and useful tool, but students need to realize that there are ethical implications to how technology is used. There is a “right” and “wrong” way to use technology and our duty is to make students aware of the implications and costs of technology so they can make an informed decision on their own.