How could you answer a teacher job interview question similar to this:
What skills do you have to integrate technology into the classroom?
With new technological advancements being made every day, it is vital to learn how to incorporate these advancements into our everyday lives. It has now also become a great method of instruction that is replacing the chalkboard.
Schools have invested in laptops for teachers to integrate technology into the classroom. Their students can gain access to software and educational websites easily. This makes learning fun and easier. Teachers have an important role in incorporating technology in the classroom that will pique the students’ interest.
Note that the digital literacy skills you’ve acquired will enable you to use this technology to reach educational objectives and goals. Your methods of instruction will be more effective, and you will be more productive as a result.
These skills will facilitate your access to educational content and provide you with the ability to share, keep, and re-use your lesson plans. This will greatly improve the standard of classroom education. These skills will enable you to collaborate better with your colleagues and managers and promote better teaching methods.
As a teacher, you need to be well-versed in computer programs and apps to incorporate technology into your classroom efficiently. The following guidelines will make this transition easier for you and the children in the classroom setting.
First, identify the method you approach integrating the computer. Choose to facilitate or instruct. Choose to have an instructional computer session or facilitate learning by letting students work independently.
As a teacher, you need to be familiar with the program or website that students will be using. This will enable you to assist them in navigating the web pages or through the computer program. If you’re not conversant with the program, some guides accompany each program.
Incorporate computer time directly into your lesson plans. This plan should include the objectives to be met in each curriculum area. Computers can act as tools of reinforcement of content material. Briefly instruct each student on the program or website while at their desks, then let them continue what they have learned practically.
Engage the students while they are on the computer. Ask relevant questions about their progress. Make observational notes so you can improve on your techniques for the next session.
Some advantages that students may gain from using computers in the classroom include the attainment of word processing skills, the collaboration between students and between students and teachers, problem-solving skills, responsibility, and independence, and it promotes and encourages self-discovery.
Some districts have taken the initiative to use interactive Smart Boards instead of the traditional chalkboard or whiteboards in their classrooms. The monitors are networked with the teacher’s classroom computer and the school’s internet connection.
Through this network, the teacher can closely monitor the content passing through each student’s monitor. Interactive lessons can also be put on screen for the students to participate in the class discussions freely.
