Curriculum Definition
While trying to come up with my own definition of curriculum, I did a little googling on the internet to explore other definitions of curriculum. When I originally saw the 20 minute assignment for searching curriculum definitions and topics, I didn't think it would take 20 minutes. I was surprised when after 30 minutes I was still googling and bouncing from site to site reading about curriculum. It is truly amazing how the internet can do that for us. I was also amazed how I found simple sentence definitions of curriculum but also found long definitions and explanations like that on wikipedia.
My definition of curriculum: An integrated course of study in which students share experiences that allow them to grow and learn.
Chapter 2
In chapter 2, I really enjoyed reading the curricular commitment on 21st century tools (p. 22). Specifically I enjoyed reading "What the commitment is not" Let me refresh your memory so you don't have to look it up.
What the commitment is not:
-The limited and immediate use of a technological tool.
-Using an lcd projector versus an overhead.
-Using a computer versus a typewriter.
-Using an interactive whiteboard versus a lcd projector.
I really enjoyed reading this, because I think sometimes when some hear "technology" they think just involving some form of technology. I remember some teachers I worked with lecture with a powerpoint and call that how they incorporated technology in their lesson. Yes, powerpoint is a great tool, but there is no big difference between a powerpoint slide and using an overhead with different transparencies. Technology can be used in so many different ways to enhance the lessons and to enhance student learning and what the student produces. Sometimes we have to identify what something isn't, to help build a better understanding of what it is.
Thinking about what it means to "incorporate" technology in lessons is interesting. Using a computer rather than a typewriter, or a smartboard rather than an overhead...is it any better, if we do the same thing with them? Hmm...thanks for bringing that up!
ReplyDeleteRuben Puentedura, rubenrp@hippasus.com
ReplyDeletewrites about SAMR—substitution, augmentation,modification, redefinition—the four levels for "incorporating" technology. The first two are exactly what L. describes in her comment...the top two require a transformation in curriculum (similar to what HH Jacobs describes).
Here is an interesting link to a blog that discusses SAMR...
http://www.maggiehosmcgrane.com/2010/04/samr-model-from-theory-to-practice.html
I enjoyed your "refresher" about what technology is not. I think that there are still many teachers who think that using an LCD projector to show a PowerPoint presentation is a way to check off "I use technology in my classroom". Yes, it is using technology in the classroom . . . to enhance the lesson plan. I don't believe it enhances what the student learns. I personally have taken nearly all of the information I used to deliver via overheads and made PowerPoints of the information. I find it is much easier for students to see and read, and it is definitely more visually appealing. But that wasn't difficult for me other than it took some time to do so. I find it much more difficult to find ways to incorporate technology that as you say "enhances student learning and/or enhances what the student produces".
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