Instructional Technology

Effective use of educational technology is vital to solving many of our current educational challenges. This section of Innovative Learning provides resources to help teachers learn about educational technology tools that can improve teaching and learning.

While effective learning should be the driving force behind technology integration, it is important to keep up with technology advances in order to recognize potential solutions. Tools are abundant, but we must be able to recognize how to leverage their capabilities (or afforddances) in order to improve the learning experience.

Indispensable Learning Technologies

• Blogs
  • Educational blogs
• Collaborative Writing
• Learning Management Systems (LMS)
  • Modular LMS
• Mash-ups
• Microblogging
• Mind Mapping / Concept Mapping
• Mobile Learning
• Online Video Editing
• RSS
• Social Bookmarking
• Social Networking
• Virtual Worlds
• Wikis

Related Education Technology Sites

• Six Myths about Using Computers with Children
• SchoolTool.org

Finding Creative Solutions

The most effective solutions come from creativity, not technology. In many schools and learning institutions (even in low-performing areas) there is an abundance of technology, but it is not used in ways that will make an impact. Knowing the resources that are available isn't enough. We must find ways to use these resources to truly address the learner's needs. One example of a creative solution can be seen in the eGranary project.

Recommended Ed Tech Resources

• Podcasts (and vodcasts)
• Open source software
  • Top open source tools for learning
• Books on educational technology
• Related websites
• Gaming in education
  • Alternate reality games
  • Serious games
• Efficacy of technology in the classroom
• Distributed learning
• Safety on the web

Technology Standards & Frameworks

TPAK - The TPAK framework is a great way to conceptualize the different "flavors" of educational technology use

NETS - ISTE's National Educational Technology Standards (NETS) are comprehensive standards for teachers, administrators and students regarding technology integration

Instructional Technology Presentations

• Beyond Technology [PDF]
  e-Leaven Conference, Provo UT
• Teaching Outside the Box [PDF]
  Learning Summit, Rocky Gap, MD
• Indispensable Technology for Music Teachers
  ASTA Conference, Kansas City