In chapter two of Egbert's Supporting Learning with Technology, Egbert disputes many of the arguments myself and others have cited regarding the difficulties of utilizing technology in the classroom.
One argument that I have supported as an English teacher is dealing with students' plagiarism. Students of today are accustomed to using the Internet as their primary research tool, which of course leads to issues in plagiarism. Egbert suggests that teachers should narrow their topic focus and require specific information rather than have the students search broad topics. This makes sense and is easily manageable.
Another point she makes that is valid is the Just In Time principle in which teachers teach
the skills when they need them, not in advance of the lessons. I use this approach in my classes when we use the labs. Some students are very knowledgeable about technology, while others have little or no skills. So as the necessary skills become necessary, the teacher introduces them. This lowers stress for the students and the teacher!
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I liked the "Just in Time" idea as well. Using technology can be overwhelming, but when students learn about it in little chunks it is far less daunting. I can totally put myself in their place this semester!
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