Educational Technology

What the page covers

Most of what you will find here is mind maps, and they range widely. Some ask why we use technology at all, such as the three versions of Why Use ICT's in Teaching?, which pick out engagement, games and efficient use of time. Others look at theory, such as Multimedia Learning Theory of Richard Mayer and Interactive Multimodal Learning Environments, which covers the feedback, pacing and pretraining principles.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map Educational Technology. It asks how we learn, and links effective pedagogy to real-world application, social media and more than memorising facts. Next, read INNOVATIVE EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGIES for ICT-based learning and the 4Cs of 21st century skills, then Creating with ICT for creativity in student work.

1. Get the big picture from the opening map.
2. Read a theory map, such as the one on Mayer's multimedia learning.
3. Move to practice: blended learning, flipped classroom workflow, screencasting, 3D printing.
4. Look at barriers, such as Factors preventing teachers from integrating technology.

Using quizzes and maps together

Read a map first, then test yourself. Educational Technology QUIZ 1 is a sensible first check, and Web Tools Quiz Chapters 13-14 and How to Keep our Students Safe add more. Note any question you miss, then go back to the matching map. The flashcard deck ITSE Standards and the deck on the Big6 and Super 3 help with key terms.

Language learning and teaching tools

If your interest is languages, look at the maps on computer-assisted language learning and the slide set Theoretical Supports for CALL. Teachers can also open the slide sets on using GoConqr in the classroom for ideas to adapt.

Where it sits

This unit belongs to the strand Teaching Methods and Classroom Practice, within Education and pedagogy. Pick a map that matches your current question, and build your own notes alongside it.