The teacher's role when integrating technology
The Teacher's Role When Integrating Technology
With the integration of technology in the mathematics classroom the role of the teacher changes.
- The teacher becomes a facilitator - doing less direct teaching and more guiding;
- The teacher can no longer be knowledgeable in only their subject area but also in the technologies they will use;
- The teacher must become willing to let students take control over their own learning; and
- The teacher must understand that some students may be more knowledgeable then them with specific technologies.
Furthermore, the teacher must be able to integrate technology into lessons without it become intrusive. Teachers must understand that they do not need to integrate every technology but only specific ones that pertain to their own content area.
For example, it may not be useful for a mathematics teacher to integrate a wiki into their subject while an English teacher may find this to be a very powerful tool. Similarly, and more obviously, an English teacher would not integrate a calculator in their class.
Unit 1, Lesson 1 Activities
While reading and watching the article and video below be sure to take note of the new role that teachers take. Notice how the teacher becomes more of a facilitator.
1. Read: From Teacher to Facilitator
2. Watch: Technology & Teaching
3. Comment on the Math&Tech Discussion Page on the new roles that teachers play in technology classrooms. List ideas that you have on how teachers roles have or will changed.
References:
Cano, J. (2003). From teacher to facilitator: A new role for the teacher. The Agricultural Education Magazine.
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