introduction
How have computers and the Internet been used for teaching and learning?
There are three general approaches to the instructional use of computers and the Internet, namely:
- Learning about computers and the Internet, in which technological literacy is the end goal;
- Learning with computers and the Internet, in which the technology facilitates learning across the curriculum; and
- Learning through computers and the Internet, integrating technological skills development with curriculum applications.
What does it mean to learn about computers and the Internet?
Learning about computers and the Internet focuses on developing technological literacy. It typically includes:
- Fundamentals: basic terms, concepts and operations
- Use of the keyboard and mouse
- Use of productivity tools such as word processing, spreadsheets, data base and graphics programs
- Use of research and collaboration tools such as search engines and email
- Basic skills in using programming and authoring applications such as Visual Studio, Access, Eclipse and the like
- Developing an awareness of the social impact of technological change.
What about learning with computers and the Internet?
Learning with the technology means focusing on how the technology can be the means to learning ends across the curriculum. It includes:
- Presentation, demonstration, and the manipulation of data using productivity tools
- Use of curriculum-specific applications types such as educational games, drill and practice, simulations, tutorials, virtual laboratories, visualizations and graphical representations of abstract concepts,musical composition, and expert systems
- Use of information and resources on CD-ROM or online such as encyclopedia, interactive maps and atlases, electronic journals and other references
Technological literacy is required for learning with technologies to be possible, implying a two-step process in which students learn about the technologies before they can actually use them to learn. However, there have been attempts to integrate the two approaches.
What does learning through computers and the Internet mean?
Learning through computers and the Internet combines learning about them with learning with them. It involves learning the technological skills "just-in-time" or when the learner needs to learn them as he or she engages in a curriculum-related activity. For example, secondary school students who must present a report on the impact on their community of an increase in the price of oil for an Economics class may start doing research online, using spreadsheet and database programs to help organize and analyze the data they have collected, as well using a word processing application to prepare their written report.
Google has released a top notch, web-based productivity suite at docs.google.com. The knock against using spreadsheets and word processors likes these online, is that when students enter the work world, they'll be using Microsoft Office, so schools should prepare students for what they are likely to encounter in business. This argument is flawed on two counts:
- Schools should teach concepts and how to use software like a word processor generally, not tailor a curriculum to one piece of software. A student taught how to use Office 2003 will have a harder time upgrading to Office 2007 than a student taught how to word process and use a spreadsheet and apply their knowledge to many applications
- Online Apps are an emerging trend, and exposing students to them now will give these students a leg up over students taught to use software built on a 30 year old distribution model.