As a Masters student in the Instructional Technology program at Virginia Tech, I’ve spent my weekend reading (well, I have read this weekend) one of our texts, Trends and Issues in Instructional Design and Technology, by Robert Resier and John Dempsey, and immediately grabbed the blue highlighter [green = main topic; yellow = detail; blue = interesting point] when I read a paragraph about 19th century technology and slammed on my brakes. It was one of those “ouch” responses.
In Chapter 3, “A History of Instructional Design and Technology,” Reiser opens with a review of Instructional Design and Technology’s definition (summarizing a long definition into common language: it basically states it’s good teaching and good planning with the integration of technology) and he transitions to the history of instructional media, “…defined as the physical means via which instruction is presented to learners [Resier & Gagne, 1983].” In other words, it’s whatever physical means by which instruction is delivered.
Here’s the quote that resulted in a blue highlighting: “the three primary means of instruction BEFORE* the twentieth century (AND STILL THE MOST COMMON MEANS TODAY*)–the teacher, the chalkboard, and the textbook–…”1
Even though the research might be older, I wonder how many still use these as their main tools of instruction? Could it also be that the overhead projector, if it is the only technology tool used, is now considered likewise?
How does one state it better for those who are scared to grasp and grab on to technology integration in the classroom? If you’re one of our technophobes and are scared of technology, permit me to come rescue you and show you the glories and fun of making lessons come alive! If chalk and the textbook are still your sole means of delivery, permit me to show you the joys of I.T.!
Hats off to:
==>Mr. Fisher: rarely do I NOT see a computer being used in his library classes;
==>Mrs. Bright: The technology integration principal guru of Portsmouth!
==>Mrs. Froehlich: You have gone from, “Eeek! Laptops!” to applying for and winning an MCPS system!
==>Mrs. James: You’ve been showing your teammates the power of PowerPoints!
==>Mrs. White: You never cease to amaze teachers and inspire teachers who come to observe your teaching!
==>Mr. O’Donnell: As with entering any mad scientist’s lab, one has to dodge all the technology in your room, and your students are given many great opportunities!
==>Mrs. Barth: You’re always sharing technology links!
==>Mrs. Rhodes: Always “bungie jumping” off your comfort level, you never quit trying those things that cause you fear!
Do you have anyone else that you want to brag about? Join in the conversation by clicking “comments” above!
————————footnotes—–
*: caps mine
1: Reiser, page 28; also, cf. Commission on Instructional Technology–1970)
