Module 4 Reflection

How can technology be used most effectively to support and assess student learning?

I think this module has helped to remind me how easy it is for students to get off task when working on the Internet doing research. I think one key aspect is to provide them some direction. I know we want students to have some choices, but I think they are still in great need of guidance. So I think creating a list of "great sites to start with" helps students to find a starting point that is on-task.

I also am reminded that as we increase the use of technology by students we increase the diversity of technology levels of the students and that the tasks we ask them to do may need instruction. Although most students by high school have made PowerPoint presentations, most of them have not been taught presentation skills and how to make the PowerPoint effective and enjoyable by others. Incorporating videos into presentations may also be a skill many are not yet familiar with - particulary how to find quality videos and how to show them during the presentation.