Future Research
Instructional technology
in middle school instruction has begun to be researched but many questions
remain unanswered and a wide array of research continues to be needed.
Educators are asking if computers make a difference in the performance
of middle school students on standardized assessments. Teachers are
asking if instructional technology is the best tool for delivery of
the curriculum. Since the Internet is the most cited instructional technology
being used to supplement the other instructional tools, how can teachers
find, use, and assess the web sites for the classroom. Technology needs
to be evaluated when used by diverse populations. The learning environment
of a classroom with instructional technology is different than a classroom
without technology and the question remains regarding benefits of technology
in the classroom. If technology is in the classroom, does that mean
that students are actively engaged in learning and that the classroom
environment is student centered? If instructional technology is used,
are the students using higher order thinking skills and inquiry based
learning? The classroom environment, the teaching and learning strategies,
the curriculum are all effected by the inclusion of instructional technology
so the research will continue to add new information and shape the evolution
of instructional technology in the classroom.
Conclusion
"Traditional
educational practices no longer provide students with all the necessary
skills for economic survival in today's workplace. Students must apply
strategies for solving problems and use appropriate tools for learning,
collaborating, and communicating. Today's learning environments must
incorporate strategies and tools that prepare students for their futures"
(ISTE National Educational Technology Standards for Students, 2000,
p. 7).
The vehicles utilized to
develop and construct knowledge, by students and teachers, in middle
school social studies classrooms continue to evolve. Computer-based
instructional technologies, used as educational strategies to deliver
the classroom curriculum, continue to increase in popularity. The Internet,
educational games, and simulations are creating the path for increased
technological deployment in the classroom. Directly related to the infusion
of computer-based technology into the classroom is an increase in student
enthusiasm for the learning of social studies. We are educating our
children to embrace their future. "To thrive in today's world and
tomorrow's workplace, American students must learn how to learn, learn
how to think, and have a solid understanding of how technology works
and what it can do" (CEO Forum, School Technology and Readiness
Report, 1997).
References
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About
the Authors:
Dr. Linda Bennett
is an Assistant Professor in the College of Education at the University
of Missouri-Columbia. She coordinates social studies education at the
university and her research focus is the integration of technology in
social studies education.
Email: lb@missouri.edu
Dr. Jonathan Pye is
the principal at Bryant Elementary School in Independence Missouri.
He teaches online social studies education courses for the university
and his professional training is in social studies education.
E mail: pyej@missouri.edu
