Lesson 4

Basic Concepts on Integrating Technology in Instruction

                There is a lingering issue on how educational technology is integrated in the teaching learning process. This is due to the fact that the mere use of the computer does not mean technology has already been integrated in instruction. For example, computer games may not relate at all to education, much less to classroom instruction.

                There is need, therefore, to provide learning on how educational technology can be applied and integrated into the teaching-learning process. For this purpose, the definition given by Pisapia (1994) is helpful:

                Integrating technology with teaching means the use of learning technologies to introduce, reinforce, supplement and extend skills. The difference between the classrooms of exemplary users of technology and technology users is the way their classes are conducted. In the exemplary classrooms, student use computers are woven integrally into the patterns of teaching: software is a natural extension of student tools.

                Following this definition, there is NO INTEGRATIVE PROCESS if for example the teacher makes students play computer games to give them rest period during classes. Neither is there integration, if the teacher merely teaches students computer skills. In the first place, the teachers of general or special subjects are not computer technicians or computer trainors.

                If one is looking for external manifestations of technology integration into instruction, here are some:

·         There’s a change in the way classes are traditionally conducted.

·         The quality of instruction is improved to a higher level in such a way that could not have been achieved without educational technology.

·         There is planning by the teacher on the process of determining how and when technology fits into the teaching-learning process.

·         The teacher sets instructional strategies to address specific instructional issues/problems.

·         The use of technology provides the opening of opportunities to respond to these instructional issues/problems.

·         In sum, technology occupies a position (is a simple or complex way) in the instructional process.

Simple/basic integration
In these examples, there is no substantial change in the teaching-learning process from previous method. While technology helps, it does not play a pivotal role.
Ms. Cruz wants to show photos in her Social Studies class, but the pictures are small. She decides to use the computer, scan the photos for a computer projection to the class (a presentation software package)	Result: good class presentation followed by a discussion
Mr. Alonzo thinks it is tedious to do paper-and-pen match worksheets. He decides to use the computer to put the worksheets into a spreadsheet form. He then asked the students to submit their complete worksheet to him by e-mail.	Result: More active student activity

Middle level integration
There is a purposeful use of technology to support key learning areas
Geography teacher Ms. Sioson finds it difficult to motivate her students to learn about other countries. Her supervisor suggested an instructional simulation software in which students play detectives to solve mysteries related to geography. Ms. Sioson used the computer-based material, also designed worksheets and question-answer sheets to find out the students’ experience in the learning process.	Result: an exciting group learning activity
Mr. Roxas uses a computer-bases Trigonometry software, projected to the class using a projector to supplement his teacher centered class presentation.	Result: an interactive class using a software
English teacher, Ms. Santos, used computer-based activities (software) which students can go through during library time.	Result: enrichment activity; record-keeping features of software allows checking of progress of student learning.
Ms. Yu asks her students to find information on H-fever in the internet. Students are to create an information leaflet giving a family health tips on H-fever	Result: creative skills employed by students

In these examples, Technology is the central instructional tool
To dish out information on the Asean Region, Mr. Lopez assigned newsletter computer production by group	Result: increase social skills through group work; planning, creativity, computer skills
The Rizal school has a partner-school in the US. A joint Science project allows the Philippine and U.S. schools to exchange information on indigenous herbal plants in both countries. Video conferencing is held involving students on both schools.	Result: a more sophisticated Technology-supported project demonstrating global communication and socially relevant research