Integrated Curriculum Design

Integrated Curriculum Design

TEC 509

Professor Elliot

Grand Canyon University

Teresa Broadnax

January 29, 2009

Introduction

Technology is a fascinating phenomenon. Its main purpose is to assist humans in making their everyday routines much easier and manageable. What is also intriguing about technology is that it serves as a communication medium through e-mail, mobile phones, instant messaging, texting, video conferencing, chat rooms, and blogs.

When we focus our thoughts toward educators using technology in their classroom, it raises a question: Is every student, regardless of need, obtaining equal learning experiences through real-life problem solving, critical thinking and decision making? (Richardson, Morgan, Fleener 2006). The response is yes and is supported by the vast number of educational websites on the World Wide Web (or Internet for short). What’s more, most of these websites offer interactive learning as a way to further engage the student’s learning moment.

It’s no secret that students come in every shape, size, and type (Steele-Carlin 2001) in which they obviously learn at different rates. However, let’s focus on the type of student learner. They are the general population, the at-risk students, and special education. What kinds of technology could the teacher use to engage any of these students in his/her classroom? (Richardson, Morgan, Fleener 2006). For starters, using reputable instructional software that includes word processing, presentation and database programs; electronic textbooks, audio and visual media, application content software; distance learning; cooperative grouping, one-on-one interface, peer instruction, reflective and reciprocal teaching.

Educators are especially aware of conveying knowledge to the special need student. Most do their best to incorporate assistive technology in their classroom. The teacher realizes assistive technology is an invaluable tool that can...