Module A: Framing Issues
Module A is an examination our own understandings, assumptions and experiences with technology for teaching and learning math and science.
To start with, we had to look back into our [non] technological past to examine when and how we got propelled into this world of technology. It was an interesting walk down the memory lane.
And…where do we think we want to go from here? We needed to step back and decide what “counts” as good use of technology in math and science learning environments. This made me examine my current practices and what I would like to do ideally in my math and science classes. While “unpacking my assumptions” I think I started to plan what I want to take away from this course.
We looked at some interviews -examining the use and lack of use of technology in educational set ups. I chose to examine elementary setup since they are more relevant to me. I was inspired, impressed and exasperated as well!
After examining the case studies we were given the opportunity to Build Our Own Case! Armed with questions which had evolved out of my “Unpacking Assumptions”, “Case studies” assignment, and my classmates input in the Class Wiki, I interviewed a colleague of mine to examine the state of technology in the science and math classroom closer to home. There were a lot of nods, many questions, and thoughts!
interview [ pdf version]
Interview [post]
After examining interviews and conducting our own, we discussed the issues that had surfaced in our discussions. Interestingly, even though our interviews spanned divergent geographical areas, teacher expertise and experience, and came from various levels of education, a common thread emerged in the discussions.
Framing Issue Assignment: We were suppose to select an issue that interested us and was related to technology in the math and science classroom. We were suppose to identify our assumptions and beliefs regarding this issue and articulate how we had developed this perspective. We had to examine our issue in light of contemporary evidence and then examine the growth of our issue – how it may have changed, developed, and deepened as a result of our findings. I focused on the scope of Web 2.0 tools in elemetary education – an issue very close to my heart!