Incorporate Technology into Curriculum

Bringing urban schools into the information age: planning for technology vs technology planning

Fishman, B. J., & Pinkard N.

The authors noticed that many schools put computers into classrooms and thought that was it. However, hardware alone would not guarantee technology-enhance learning effect.

Fisherman and Pinkard pointed out three pitfalls in computer installed schools: insufficient use of computers, lack of technology support for teachers, and no connection between technology, learning theory or curriculum. To address these pitfalls, they suggested a “Planning for Technology” model.

(This paper was published in 2001 when computers were less common in schools or at home. Today, teachers in general gain better skills and knowledge in using computer.)

7 years passed and I wonder how many schools, including colleges, are aware of the pitfalls addressed and do use computers to enhance teachings. I mean, not by simply allow students to use pre-installed software such as word processor, digital graphic processor, searching on the Internet. I still consider these as insufficient use of computers.

I am more curious: how many schools have hold teacher discussion on how to incorporate technology into curriculum to form a shared vision?

Fisherman and Pinkard’s article was valuable because the model did gave out a step-by-step solution.

In our last class discussion we realized that provide computer and Internet access did not mean Digital Divide was eliminated, because unintended use of computers was popular and the envision goal was not achieved. I have the same worry the same would happen in schools, hardware access alone does not equal to obtaining technology-enhanced learning environment.