Chapter 2 Reflections

How do I plan an integrated lesson that will work with my students?

Using components of the NTeQ will help teachers create a integrated lesson plan.  Teachers have to prepare to teach integrated lesson plans by figuring out the lenght of time needed for the lesson, the usage of the computer, figuring out and creating the objectives of the lesson, and using problem solving methods to determine the assessment and followup of the lesson plan (Morrison, G.R., & Lowther, D.L., 2010).

Why do I need objectives to help with my planning and lesson development?

Objectives help the teacher by allowing them to layout the goals of the lesson and goals they have for their students.  Having objectives helps making planning and development of the lesson plan easier.  When the teacher figures out the objectives they discover how to plan the lesson and the usage of sources for the lesson plan to be successful.  However, the standard objectives of the subject area is determined by the state through plans such as the Standard Course of Study, 21st Century, and other pedalogies adopted by state and federal governments in education.

How can I encourage my students to engage in the processing of information?

The computer offers lots of ways and resources for students to engage in the processing of information.  Once students see that their are many resources available their interest grows.  One way to help students engage in processing info is by allowing them to pick some of the search topics.  Another way is by getting them to determine what websites are factual or opinionated.  The teacher must teach them about the information in order for them to learn to process it.

Do I have to use a different lesson plan when I want my students to use computers?

This question can have a yes and no answer depending on many factors.  Many teachers create lesson plans and use them other years.  It also depends on the objectives of the lesson plan.  Teachers have to be sure that all lesson plans play a key role in the standard course of study and accomplishing those goals and guidelines set by the state.  So, it is important for the teacher to make sure the lesson plan is thorough in the objectives.

What is the relationship between objectives and computer functions?

In order to have a successful integrated lesson the objectives must form a relationship with some of the computer functions.  One example of this is to have students do a presentation on mammals using the computer but the function would be putting that assignment into a powerpoint presentation.  However you can leave other options for the functions of this assignment available to students.  They could be given the choice of a power point presentation or creating a brochure on mammals.  Objectives and computer functions go hand in hand in integrated lessons.

Can you use a computer for every objective or lesson?

Teachers do not have enough time to create all of their lesson plans surrounding the use of a computer.  Some objectives set by the standard course of study do not leave room for the use of a computer on mastering some skills.  Teachers also do not have the resources or means to have computers accessible to their students everyday in most school systems.  A teacher realizes that not all students may learn the best with this method and mixing things up keeps students interest.

Morrison, G. R. & Lowther, D.L.  Integrating Computer Technology into the Classroom:  Skills for the 21st Century.  Pearson: Boston, 2010).