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Overhead Projector
The overhead projector gave teachers the ability to share their documents with the class. Oppose to lecturing the entire class, or writing on the board, teachers were now able to provide visual examples of what was being taught. This not only made teaching easier, but allowed students to better comprehend the materials as they were provided with visual representations. -
Audio books
Audio books allowed for students to listen to books instead of reading them. This strategy is beneficial for students who struggle with reading. Students are able to solely listen to the text, or listen and they follow along in the book. -
Behaviorist Theory / B. F. Skinner
In Skinner's Behaviorist theory, it is believed that behavior is controlled by consequences. As technology evolved, they became a motivator for students in the classroom. Under the behaviorist theory, teachers would reward students by allowing them to play educational games on the computer. The need to want to use the classroom computers cause students to work harder in order to be rewarded. -
Photo Copier
The photo copier allowed teachers to save time on planning. Oppose to creating worksheets for every student in the class, the photo copier allowed teacher to create one worksheet and make copies for the entire class. These copies are also able to be shared between teachers and from year to year. -
Information Processing Theory
The Information-processing theory believes that programs which consists of visualization and structured cuing are essential to learning and remembering. The Information Processing Theory influences software that can simulate the thinking and learning behaviors of humans. Information-processing theories have also guided the development of artificial intelligence (AI) applications. -
Headphones
In the year of 1950, headphones were introduced in learning labs. Headphones enabled students to not only listen to audio without distracting others around them. Headphones also are used in order to limit distractions caused by people and sounds nearby. Using headphones block out what is going on around the student allowing them to concentrate on the task at hand. -
Speak to Text
Speak to text allows students to speak into a device that converts language to text. This is beneficial to students who struggle with writing and/or typing. The software enable students to get their thoughts on paper despite their deficiencies. -
Bill Gates
In 1955 Bill Gates was born. Bill Gates has had a huge impact on the world of technology and has been involved in every step as technology continues to evolve. In 1980, Bill Gates created Microsoft, which is a software program that was created to support hardware devices. Microsoft is an operating system that allows us to use programs such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. Gates has also provided us with Internet Explorer and Edge web browser, Xbox and Microsoft Surface -
Steve Jobs
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Cognitivism Theory
During the 1960's, Jean Piaget developed the Cognitivism Theory. In the cognitive theory, students learn most effectively through reading text and lecture instruction. An example would be using pictures for representation or demonstrating activities and having students follow. -
Systems Approach Theory
In systems approach theory, teachers set objectives for a lesson and then develop a sequence of activities. A software package or a web activity is selected to carry out part of the instructional sequence. The most important aspect of this theory is providing immediate feedback and updating students on their progress. -
Constructivism Theory
The constructivism theory believes that people are responsible for creating their own understanding. In this theory, experiences are used to construct meaning. -
Social Learning Theory
The social learning theory was created by Albert Bandura and stresses that behavior can be learned by imitating other. In the classroom, this theory can be used in group activities. Teachers can simply pair students according to strengths and weaknesses. For instance, if John is great in math, but struggles in English, John can be paired with someone who is great in English. John will then be able to gain assistance and learn from modeling his peer. -
Multiple Intelligence Theory
The theory of multiple intelligence was developed by Howard Gardner. The multiple intelligence theory states that everyone has their own intelligence. There is no one way to learn or to be taught. As educators our job is to put our students in situations that allow them to recognize their strengths. Once the students' intelligence is discovered, educators must create environments that fits their intelligence and allows the student to become more effective. -
Apple Mac
The MacIntosh 128k was the first Apple computer created and was introduced in 1984. This PC was special because the software allowed users to design with text and graphics making the program unique, creative and fun. This invention opened the doors for later products such as the MacBook, IPad, IPhone and IPod. -
Experiential Learning Theory
Experiential Learning Theory was developed by David A. Kolb and Carl Rogers. They believe learning occurred in two ways:
cognitive learning and experiential learning. In summary, the experiential theory is learning through participation and experiences. The best way to promote this theory in the classroom is through class discussions, open ended discussions and group work. -
Social Cognitive Theory
The social cognitive theory was developed from the social learning theory. This theory states that ones environment influences their behavior. It is believed that if you remove someone from one environment to another, the new environment will influence new behavior patterns. -
AOL Instant Messenger
Instant messenger was a network that allowed individuals to instantly communicate with one another. The speed of instant messengers were faster than emails making it a popular option. We must credit instant messenger for the creation of text messages which is theoretically the same, except text messages were specifically designed to be used on cell phones instead of computers. -
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi allows us to connect to the internet wirelessly. Before Wi-Fi, we could only connect to the internet through an ethernet cord which caused us to be stationary. With Wi-Fi, we are able to access the internet from anywhere that has a signal. In the classroom this allows for students to use their devices at their desk. Thanks to Wi-Fi, all students in the class can use their devices simultaneously. -
Blackboard Inc.
Blackboard Inc. is a course management system use in schools across the country. Blackboard allows teachers to upload assignments for students to see on their computers or smart devices. Teachers are also able to provide grade information and communicate with their students. Blackboard also has a feature called collaborate where teachers can hold synchronously video lessons with their students. -
Google Search Engine
Allows us to research at a faster rate. Oppose to using encyclopedias, books and journals, the Google search engine gave us the ability to type in our questions and instantly provides us with several resources to adequately find answers to our questions. -
Facebook
Facebook creates a safe and comfortable environment for students to communicate with their classmates and teachers. Teachers are able to create groups for their class where the teacher can share information pertaining to assignments, and students can collaborate and have discussions with one another. Facebook can also be beneficial to parents and guardians. Administrators can post school closings and events for the community to see at once oppose to sending out newsletters and emails. -
YouTube
YouTube allows students to watch lessons from educators from all around the world. On YouTube, both teacher and students can review informational programs such as TedTalk which elaborates on different subject matters for research purposes or to gain a better understanding on a specific topic. Students also have the opportunity to record and upload presentations for their peers to view. -
Connectivism
George Siemens and Stephen Downes developed a theory for the digital age, Connectivism. Connectivism proposes that people process information by forming a connection. In the classroom, teachers can incorporate online game activities that are relatable to students. This keeps students engaged while doing something they enjoy. -
Drop Box
Drop Box is a software designed to store files. Users are able to login to their account and upload any materials they would like to save. Drop Box allows users to access their documents from any computer or smart device that has access to the internet. Drop Box replaces the era of saving files on your computer and flash drives. Drop Box avoids losing data if your computer crashes or if you lose or break your flash drive. -
iPhone
The IPhone is like a handheld computer. The IPhone provides instant access to the internet which allows faster research. The IPhone also is equipped with several apps that assist with student success. Apps that alert students when teacher post assignments, when assignments are due and when grades are uploaded. -
Zoom
Zoom allows teachers to connect with students synchronously. The need for Zoom has increased during this year as several schools have transitioned to online learning. Teachers are able to share their computer screens with students, create breakout rooms for group discussions and have comments and questions shared in the group chat during the lesson. -
Microsoft Office 365
Microsoft Office 365 allows users to access Office products from any device they use. Oppose to purchasing software and downloading it to your computer to gain access to Microsoft Office, users are now able to create an account online, and access the account through the web whenever the product is needed. Users are also able to save their information to their account which eliminates transferring information from computer to computer. -
iPad
The iPad has allowed teachers to increase resources in the classrooms. IPad are full of learning materials to help students to learn with apps such as ABC Mouse, Kiddopia, YouTube, Kindle, Kahoot, Hooked on Phonics, Speak to Text, Calculator and Google Translate -
Google Drive
Google drive is a file storage service created by Google. It allows you save your files from any computer or smart device as long as you have a Google account. Google drive allows you to share large files with others that are not able to be shared through email. As a teacher Google Drive allows you to keep all of your teaching materials in one place with the ability to access and edit them by simply logging in to your account. -
Google Glasses
Google glasses allows students to use virtual reality platforms. Virtual Reality allows students to view museums, ancient worlds, historical civilizations and landmarks around the world in the comfort of your own home. I foresee the use of virtual reality increasing during these times where traveling with family and school field trips are restricted due to the current climate of the COVID-19 pandemic. -
Apple Watch
The Apple Watch has the ability to access most apps that are downloaded on your smartphone if the two are synced making it easier to stay productive. The Apple watch provides access to a timer, allows you to communicate with peers and educator, keep notes to organize your thoughts, and send text messages and email. Students have the opportunity to record lectures to revisit at a later date. This is a great strategy for students who struggle with note taking and/or retaining information.
