Crystal Butler

http://crystalbutlerclassroom.weebly.com/
EDU-225
3/20/2016

Entry 2: Technology to Enhance Instruction

Integrating Instructional Technology

The use of technology in the classroom is becoming more and more common. This is so
important because there are several applications for technology that enhance learning (Ersoy &
Bozkurt, 2015). Videos allow teachers to help children visualize what they are learning (Sever,
Oguz-Unver, & Yurumezoglu, 2013). Educational computer games allow children to have a
hands-on component as they practice basic concepts (Beserra, Nussbuam, Zeni, Rodriguez, &
Wurman, 2014). PowerPoint presentations are useful to both teachers and students for outlining
information. While all of this technology is beneficial in the classroom there may be drawbacks
as well. In addition, there is a decision to be made as to whether wired or wireless systems would
be a better fit for the classroom. Videos, educational computer games, and PowerPoint are useful
tools for learning; there are both good points and bad points to the use of technology, and it is
necessary to know how wired and wireless systems function in the classroom.
Videos
Videos are used in the classroom to expand on a subject and to bring experiences that
might otherwise be unattainable. In the classroom, this means using videos to show children
scientific processes or to help them visualize what is being taught in a textbook (Sever, OguzUnver, & Yurumezoglu, 2013). Videos can be used to help children research and observe. They
can do this by watching the video and taking notes on what they see. This can help them to
understand a certain process better (Sever, Oguz-Unver, & Yurumezoglu, 2013). For instance, a
video could be used to study the scientific concept of weather patterns. Videos on different types
of weather would be watched in the classroom and the children would take notes on what they
observe. Then there could be a class discussion to see what the children observed.
Educational Computer Games

Educational computer games are used in the classroom to help reinforce concepts that
children are learning. They could be used to help children understand a concept better (Beserra,
Nussbuam, Zeni, Rodriguez, & Wurman, 2014). They could also help children who are
struggling with a concept to have a different way to approach the subject (Beserra, Nussbuam,
Zeni, Rodriguez, & Wurman, 2014). One area that children sometimes struggle with
understanding is fractions. Educational games on the computer would be one way to help
children visualize the concept and be able to understand it better (Beserra, Nussbuam, Zeni,
Rodriguez, & Wurman, 2014). For instance, Fraction Fling on abcya.com helps children to
recognize fractions by giving them a visual and then having them pick the correct fraction to go
with the visual (ABCya.com, 2016). These games could be used in class during free time or
during a specific time set aside for computer games.
PowerPoint Presentations
PowerPoint presentations are a staple of the classroom (Yu & Smith, 2008). These types
of presentations can be used to outline information and make it easier to understand (Yu &
Smith, 2008). PowerPoint can also be used by the students to make presentations to the class.
One use of this in the class would be to have the children do a research presentation on a
historical figure. They could research their person in groups and then make a PowerPoint. Then
they could present to the class what they found by using the presentation. This would cover a few
different areas such as history, writing, and use of technology by the students.
Pros and Cons of using Technology to Facilitate Learning
Using technology to facilitate learning has its good points and its bad points. One of the
benefits of using technology in the classroom is that children are able to visualize concepts better
(Yu & Smith, 2008). For instance, when talking about certain science concepts children

understand better if they can see how they work. In addition, using computer games gives them
the opportunity to have a hands-on experience. This is particularly important with math concepts
(Beserra, Nussbuam, Zeni, Rodriguez, & Wurman, 2014). It is also important to expose children
to the use of technology because of the increasing use of technology in society. Using technology
can be a way to make children excited about learning and to get them more engaged in the
process (Beserra, Nussbuam, Zeni, Rodriguez, & Wurman, 2014). However, one issue that
comes up is the fact that children might not respond to traditional learning methods. Another
issue happens when technology does not function correctly. This can be frustrating and it can
even ruin a lesson plan if a teacher does not plan carefully to have alternatives. It is also
important to remember that technology does not take the place of teaching; it is only a tool to
enhance learning (Ersoy & Bozkurt, 2015). Therefore, it is necessary to use technology wisely in
the classroom to see the greatest benefit.
Technology has had a great impact on the classroom. For instance, just watching a video
is so much easier because of the advances in technology. It also really does bring a visual and
hands-on element in the classroom that would not otherwise exist (Sever, Oguz-Unver, &
Yurumezoglu, 2013). It makes certain mundane tasks easier such as grading and record keeping.
In addition, it opens up new worlds in the form of being able to communicate on a global scale.
Technology has the potential to help students be more engaged thus creating an environment of
learning (Yu & Smith, 2008). These are some of the ways that technology impacts the classroom.
Wired and Wireless Classrooms
Wired classrooms are connected to technology via wires. This means that computers,
printers, and keyboards are all wired and connected to each other to work (Gunter & Gunter,
2015). Advantages include knowing one will have a connection and not being subject to

interference (Gunter & Gunter, 2015). One disadvantage is that wires can be cumbersome and
limits where and how the technology is used. For instance, a computer that is connected to the
wall by wires could not be moved from one location to another without much effort. Likewise,
the mobility of such devises is minimal (Gunter & Gunter, 2015). This means that use in the
classroom is limited to a specific location.
Wireless classrooms function by using Bluetooth technology or radio waves (Gunter &
Gunter, 2015). This greatly increases the mobility of such devices. It also means that students
have greater access to technology wherever they are (Gunter & Gunter, 2015). Devices such as
tablets and smart phones allow students and teachers to use them in the classroom, at home, and
anywhere they can access a Wi-Fi connection. (Gunter & Gunter, 2015) One drawback is a WiFi connection might not exist in a certain place or it might not be working properly. In addition,
interference can happen when in certain buildings or locations (Gunter & Gunter, 2015). The
main impact of wireless technology to the classroom is the increased access for students and
teachers. It is also helpful that this technology is mobile, which means that students could take
the technology with them to complete assignments.
Conclusion
Technologies such as videos, educational computer games, and PowerPoint help facilitate
learning in the classroom; however, there are both benefits and drawbacks to using technology
and it is important to know the differences between wired and wireless systems to know what is
best for the classroom. Using these technologies helps children learn by giving them a visual
aspect and the ability to be hands-on in their learning. This makes children more engaged and
eager to learn, which leads to better outcomes in learning. Technology is beneficial for
enhancing learning in the classroom.

References
ABCya.com. (2016). Fraction Fliing. Retrieved from www.abcya.com:
http://www.abcya.com/fraction_fling.htm
Beserra, V., Nussbuam, M., Zeni, R., Rodriguez, W., & Wurman, G. (2014). Practising
Arithmetic Using Educational Video Games with an Interpersonal Computer. Journal of
Educational Technology & Society, 17(3), 343-358. Retrieved from
https://lopes.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&
db=ehh&AN=98543310&site=eds-live&scope=site

Ersoy, A., & Bozkurt, M. (2015). Understanding an Elementary School Teachers' Journey of
Using Technology in the Classroom from Sand Table to Interactive Whiteboard.
International Electronic Journal of Elementary Education, 8(1), 469-488. Retrieved from
https://lopes.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&
db=eric&AN=EJ1078852&site=eds-live&scope=site
Gunter, G. A., & Gunter, R. E. (2015). Teachers Discovering Computers: Integrating
Technology in a Changing World. Boston: Cengage Learning. Retrieved from
http://gcumedia.com/digital-resources/cengage/2014/teachers-discoveringcomputers_integrating-technology-in-a-changing-world_ebook_8e.php
Sever, S., Oguz-Unver, A., & Yurumezoglu, K. (2013). The effective presentation of inquirybased classroom experiments using teaching strategies that employ video and
demonstration methods. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, 29(3), 450463. Retrieved from
https://lopes.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&
db=eric&AN=EJ1017832&site=eds-live&scope=site
Yu, C., & Smith, M. L. (2008). PowerPoint: Is It an Answer to Interactive Classrooms?
International Journal of Instructional Media, 35(3), 271-282. Retrieved from
https://lopes.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&
db=ehh&AN=34705807&site=eds-live&scope=site