Too Cool for School? No Way! by Punya Mishra and Matthew Koehler
The TPACK framework makes a great deal of sense. Where we once needed a balance of pedagogical content and content knowledge we know need to gain the knowledge level of technology and how it can be used to successfully merge it into of lesson plans. While technology can be a boon and make life easier, just trying to use a technology without adapting it to your students needs can be wasted effort and actually keep students from learning. The examples of how technology can be used were interesting but I could see problems with the microblogging and DJ software with kindergarteners though maybe I need to find out a little bit more about their technical proficiency right now.
1. What are some possible problems with the microblogging? Many schools may not have the technology to allow the students to do this. If you use something like Twitter, it seems like this could lead to problems between the have and have-nots, so that the students with cell phones would have an advantage over the students whose families couldn’t afford the service.
2. With the additional technology content being added to the framework how can teachers balance advancing their pedagogy, content and technology skills? The need for teachers to work in groups to support each other in their personal development would seem to be greater than ever if they are going to have any chance of keeping up with all three content areas. Getting administrators to provide these opportunities is looking problematic as funding becomes more scarce.
For professional development in educational use of technology, you can also attend conferences. There are technology conferences such as NECC (National Educational Computing Conference) and SITE (Society of Information Technology and Teacher Education). Other general conferences also have technology sessions. However, conferences are not cheap. I hope your school will have money to support your travel.
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