Issues+In+Educational+Technology+LD

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=Using Technology to Support Higher Order Thinking=

How can technology be used to support higher-order thinking? Technology can be used to support higher-order thinking by using computer software that assists in teaching. Computer software includes excel and word, inspiration, databases, and simulations. These can support higher-order thinking because they make the students problem solve, analyze, and create different projects or assignments that focus on the process of using higher-order thinking skills which takes focus and comprehension. It supports higher-order thinking because it makes students focus on the process and the reality of problem solving. For some students, visually using simulations helps to clarify the issue at hand. By using a simulation in the classroom, it is in a controlled environment which will be safe for students. It also can provide a real-world example which is more cost effective.

An example of technology that supports higher-order thinking is the virtual learning experience a student can receive from taking a virtual tour of the seven wonders of the world. These tours from [|Panorama] are great learning tools for the classroom because it is very cost effective. Students do not literally have to travel to the seven wonders if they were to have to write a paper on them. They would be able to go to this website and get a 360 degree virtual tour for free. Also this is a real-world example that is controlled because there is nothing unsafe about this website. This website will give students an idea of the physical reality of the actual seven wonders without traveling there. From this, students will be able to generalize and draw conclusions about each of the locations.

=Using Technology to Affirm Diversity=

There are many ways to use technology to affirm diversity in the classroom. There are many videos and websites on different people, places and cultures that can help make students global citizens. As an educator, respect diversity, celebrate diversity, and model diversity. These are a variety of ways that technology affirms diversity in an educational setting.

The [|Living Voices] audio is a great way to teach and talk about diversity in the classroom. Students will be able to hear many different languages from different cultures, and some students may even have cultural ties with the video that they would like to share with the class. Although this audio is mostly English, it will benefit students because they are able to hear stories from people from other cultural backgrounds. Students will be engaged with the music and stories on the audio series.

=Using Technology to Support All Learners=

Assistive technologies can be used to address the needs of students with special needs. It will help build self-esteems and make them feel a part of the classroom. This will help the special needs students to access the regular curriculum like the other students. There are many different types of assistive technology that involves low and high technology requirements. Something as simple as a pencil grip can help students learn and concentrate better. Different spell check devices and screen readers require more technology but can help a different special needs students make learning in the classroom much easier.

Screen readers (JAWS) is a computer technology that will read text allowed to students who need help. This will help students learn how to put letters with sounds and eventually help students to read. This will benefit students with diverse needs by helping to teach them a new language, so they will be able to get a feel for words and sounds in the new language. This will benefit students with other special needs as well because some students may have a hard time reading, therefore it may take them longer. By using screen readers it will build student's confidence and they will eventually be able to read faster and more fluently the more they use the assistive technology.