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Eric Shilhanek
EDU 225
August 9, 2015
Mr. M

Integrating Technology in the Science Classroom

Introduction
Goeff Mulgan states, There is incredible potential for digital technology in and beyond
the classroom, but it is vital to rethink how learning is organized if we are to reap the rewards
(Brainy Quotes, 2015). In order for education to be successful teachers have to integrate
technologies in the classroom. There are some great uses for this technology and it can take the
classroom to the next level when used in the right ways. Here are some way technology will be
used in the classroom and the pro and cons in using them for student success.
Technologies in the our Science Classroom
Technology is a great way to educate in the classroom. It can be used for classroom
instruction, demonstrations, and communication. Here is what will be used in the classroom to
fully integrate technology in todays information age.
Classroom Instruction
When it comes to instruction time in the classroom many student give a big sigh and roll
their eyes. So how can a teacher make this part of learning more exciting? The use of programs
like Prezi and PowerPoint are two great examples of doing just this. Taking the average
information and presenting it in a visual manner makes the learning experience more enjoyable
and memorable to the student. This animation bring complex ideas and thoughts into focus by
illustrating them in a visual context for the students (Savasci Aikalin, 2014). PowerPoints take
an average class lecture and brings it to life helping students learn visually as well verbally.
Demonstrations

If there is one tool that is used in almost all science classrooms it is the microscope. This
tools lets students peer into another world that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

One

technological tool that will be integrated into the classroom setting will be the digital
microscope. Digital microscopes will transforms microscopy in the classroom into a cooperative
learning experience that encourages collaborative learning instead of a typical isolated process
and when used in conjunction with traditional microscopes students can see in more detail what
they are looking for (Carolina Bioloical Supply Company, 2015). When this technology is used
in conjunction with an interactive board the images are easy to see and follow.

Communication
In the information age communication is becoming not only easier to do but also more
critical to keep up with the technological classroom. For students to be successful in their
classroom experiences there needs to be open lines of communication between student and
teacher. It does not stop there either bringing the students parents into the loop of
communication will drastically improve the average students overall grade because of the
accountability parents can take in their childs education. The Center for Public Education found
that students who have parents involved in their education process despite social and economic
classes where far more likely to have Higher grades and test scores, pass their classes, attend
school regularly, better social skills, graduate, and go on to post-secondary education (Center for
Public Education, 2011). Some of the technologies that will be used are class forums for

students, a class website, and Remind 101 for teacher/parent communication on lessons and due
dates.
Pros and Cons of Technology in the Classroom
There can be many barriers to technologies being used in the classroom which consist of
but are not limited to lack of time and resources, school culture, teacher abilities and teacher
attitudes towards technology in the classroom (Hechter, Vermette, 2013). Many schools today
are running into budget limitations and funding for these programs do to a lack of support and
funding from the state government. Despite funding issues, the real success is in the teacher
attitudes toward technology. When new technology is introduced in class the teacher can help
students by giving them time to learn how to use it by providing proper scaffolding so students
can spend more time on learning (Liu, Cheng, 2015).
Conclusion
With the proper technological tools being used in the classroom and proper scaffolding
for student success education will be engaging and fun for students in any grade. Student
success is important and to be successful in their future endeavors they need technology in the
classroom. Teach a student facts and information they will learn for a day, teach them how to use
technology and all it has to offer and they will learn for a lifetime.

References:

Brainy Quotes. (2015). Geoff Mulgan. There is incredible potential for digital technology in and
beyond the classroom, but it is vital to rethink how learning is organized if we are to reap
the rewards. Retrieved from BrainyQuotes.com on August 9, 2015 from:
http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/authors/g/geoff_mulgan.html
Carolina Biological Supply Company. (2015). Digital Microscopes and Cameras. Retrieved on
August 9, 2015 from: http://www.carolina.com/teacher-resources/Interactive/digitalmicroscopes-in-the-classroom/tr10708.tr
Center for Public Education. (2011). Back to school: How parent involvement affects student
achievement. Retrieved on August 9, 2015 from:
http://www.centerforpubliceducation.org/Main-Menu/Public-education/ParentInvolvement/Parent-Involvement.html
Hechter, R. P., & Vermette, L. A. (2013). Technology integration in K-12 science classrooms: An
analysis of barriers and implications. Themes In Science & Technology Education, 6(2),
73-90. Retrieved on August 9, 2015 from: http://library.gcu.edu:2048/login?
url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?
direct=true&db=ehh&AN=91526494&site=eds-live&scope=site

Liu, Li-Ying; Cheng, Meng-Tzu. (2015). Interactive Projector as an Interactive Teaching Tool in
the Classroom: Evaluating Teaching Efficiency and Interactivity. Turkish Online Journal
of Educational Technology - TOJET, v14 n2 p110-115 Apr 2015. Rtrieved on August 9,
2015 from: http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1057376.pdf
Savasci Aikalin, F. (2014). Use of Instructional Technologies in Science Classrooms: Teachers'
Perspectives. Turkish Online Journal Of Educational Technology - TOJET, 13(2), 197201. Retrieved on August 9, 2015 from: http://library.gcu.edu:2048/login?
url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?
direct=true&db=eric&AN=EJ1022950&site=eds-live&scope=site