Welliver’s Instructional Transformation Model
The stages for technology integration
Familiarization- Teachers become aware of technology that is available and learn how it could be used
Utilization-Technology is used, but minor problems cause the teachers to discontinue incorporating.
Integration-Technology if effectively used to enhance lessons and teacher are consistent in incorporating various forms of technology
Reorientation- Teachers make technology apart of their educational goals
Revolution- Teacher has worked to integrate technology as part of a permanent cross -curriculum fixture.
When personally reflecting where I am on this model I feel that it is unfortunate that I am at Step Two. That means that I have a long way to go!
Some of the technology out there is not developmentally appropriate to integrate into my classroom. As an early childhood educator, it is important to introduce technology, but at the same time preschool children need to have their other developmental needs met. “There is a danger that developmental needs not met through technology will be ignored or radically compromised: physical play, outdoor exploration of the community and of nature; art, music and dance; learning specific social skills and moral values, and experiencing diversity in a myriad of ways.” (EarlychildhoodNEWS).
This technology class sparks the interest in investigating what is out there and allows me to acquire a greater understanding of how it is used. I have learned to try and think outside of the box and come up with ideas to enhance my lessons through the use of technology. I do integrate some technology, but I do not feel that I’m consistent enough to say that I am at step three.
Integrating technology is a process and one that is consistently evolving. I find that even though I may not create lessons that stimulate the digital minds because of developmentally appropriate practices I do think that it is important to keep up with the trends as much as possible.
I agree with what your saying about losing the other aspects of development. My high schoolers would be lost if they lost their phones, internet, and cable TV for a week. Matter of fact I had student come in the last week of school totally bummed out just because he lost his phone during finals week. I hope that you continue to develop their other skills as well as find new ways to use technology in your classes.
ReplyDeleteOne of my friends said that her teenage daughter sleeps with her phone in hand. I really appreciate that you can aknowledge the age inappropriatness of so much technology. I cringe when I hear about parents buy i-touchs for their toddlers to play with. I have friends with babies who are planning to try getting at least to age 3 before their kids get any batter operated toys.
ReplyDeleteWhile there are some nice aspects of traveling with the traveling video games and dvd players I really do miss the days where a kid had to look out the window for at least part of the drive!