Journal Assignment #9

Realizing Technology Potential through TPACK
By the SIGTE Leadership and NTLS Program Committee

Technology, Pedagogy, and Content Knowledge (TPACK)

• Each of the three are equally important in making connections to instructional objectives in school.
• Considered the "total package" of elements that are addressed in effective technology integration.
• Melissa Pierson: "A teacher who effectively integrates technology would be able to draw on extensive content knowledge and pedagogical knowledge, in combination with technological knowledge. The intersection of th three knowledge areas could be defined as effective technology integration."

TPACK as a Strategy for Technology Integration
LINKING TECHNOLOGY WITH PEDAGOGICAL GOALS IN DIFFERENT CONTENT AREAS:
Discipline Content Technology Pedagogical Goals
Science Physics Digital Video Modifying Naive Conceptions
Social Studies History Digital Video Supporting Historical Inquiry
Lang. Arts Reading Digital Video Reinforcing Visual Imagery
Math Trig Digital Video Connecting Representations

"Digital Technologies make it possible to select and refine tools to address pedagogical needs in each discipline."

Moving the Framework Forward

• Assistance to teachers can be provided in which reflecting, planning, and enacting instructional strategies based on the TPACK intersection.
• The TPACK framework is a reminder that effective integration requires a deep understanding of content knowledge, and thoughtful exploration of ways in which ew capabilities of emerging technologies may intersect.

Journal Assignment #8

Transforming school Communities
Creating Dialgoue Using Web 2.0 Tools
by Helen Soule

One-way communication systems are no longer viable in school communities. This particular article expresses an earnest cry to school communities about using Web 2.0 tools as a way by which to transition to a two-way communication system. Soule lists the following three components as "critical components of communication" in school systems: advocacy of vision, networking to build formal and informal support, and collaboration with diverse external and internal constituencies.

The following are steps to transforming school communities:

1. Familiarize Yourself with the Tools: It's important to be acquainted with the tools before one can incorporate them with their district's communication plans.

2. Send a Clear Message: Consistency is very important in creating a successful communication plan.

3. Know the Audience: "Use multiple vehicles to gather constituency input and gain an understanding of their attitudes, preferences, and ideas."

4. Match Vehicle, Audience, and Message: The basic message should not necessarily change but the way in which it is delivered should be tailored in a way that fits each audience.

5. Create Opportunities to Educate: "Communication is part education." When people have knowledge about new ideas/ways of communicating thay are more receptive to them.

6. Use Multiple Vehicles: "Publish information in multiple formats across several platforms to increase the chances that the message will reach the intended audience."

7. Make Way for Interaction: Move from one-way communication systems to two-way communication systems that allow for collaboration with parents, students, teachers, and community members.

8. Advocate the Vision: Promotes an unprecedented accountability.

9. Network to Build Support: "Networking through technology can form powerful alliances,
connecting leaders and experts locally, nationally and internationally."

10. Collaborate with Constituents

Q1: What benefits would such a transformation have on any individual classroom?

A1: With such communication tools being used this could make room for less lack of understanding as it relates to expectations of students in behavior and assignments. It also makes room for parents to be better aware of what's taking place in their child's academic career. Communication is further made accessible between students, teachers and parents making a more sucessful collaboration possible.

Q2: What could be some reasons why school communities are not making this transformation?

A2: Lack of knowldge. Lack of funds. Immobility. The list could go on, but I believe these are the most likely reasons.