Using resources and technology
As a trainee teacher, it is essential to understand the significance of resources and technology in education. In this article, we will discuss what resources are, the types of resources, the role of technology in teaching and learning, how to meet the individual needs of learners when using resources, and the importance of using and adapting resources.
What are resources?
Resources are tools, materials, or sources of information that support teaching and learning. They can be physical, digital, or human. Resources can help students understand complex concepts, reinforce learning, and encourage independent thinking.
Examples of resources
Resources can be divided into two categories: traditional and digital. Traditional resources include textbooks, workbooks, worksheets, manipulatives, games, and models. Digital resources, on the other hand, include e-books, online videos, educational software, and apps.
Traditional resources can be used in various ways to support learning. For example, manipulatives such as counting blocks can be used to teach basic math concepts, while models such as the human body model can be used to explain complex biological systems.
Digital resources, such as educational software and apps, can also provide engaging and interactive learning experiences. For instance, the app “Duolingo” offers language learning courses, while “Khan Academy” provides free educational resources for a range of subjects.
People as a resource
Besides physical and digital resources, people can also serve as a valuable resource in education. Teachers, teaching assistants, and other education professionals can provide guidance and support to students. Additionally, peers can serve as resources through collaboration and discussion.
Collaboration among students is an example of how people can serve as a resource in education. Peer-assisted learning provides an opportunity for students to share their knowledge and skills, while also supporting each other.
Meeting the individual needs of learners when using resources
Teachers must consider the individual needs of learners when using resources. This can be achieved through differentiation, which involves adapting resources to meet the needs of each student. This can include modifying the level of difficulty, providing additional support or guidance, or offering alternative resources.
For example, a teacher can use differentiated instruction by providing additional resources such as worksheets or videos for students who need more support or guidance.
Using and adapting resources
Adapting resources is an essential skill for teachers. Adapting resources to suit the needs of individual learners can be a valuable way to ensure that all students have access to the same information. It is also important to consider the relevance of resources to the curriculum and the learning objectives.
For instance, a teacher can modify a worksheet to suit the needs of learners with visual impairments by using larger font sizes or audio descriptions.
The role of technology in teaching and learning
Technology can be a valuable tool in education. It can be used to provide engaging and interactive learning experiences, support student collaboration, and provide access to a wide range of resources. Additionally, technology can be used to provide feedback and assessment.
Examples of using technology
There are a variety of ways that technology can be used in education. For example, using online learning platforms such as Moodle can provide access to course materials. Also, interactive whiteboards can be used to facilitate discussion and collaboration among students, while educational apps like “Scratch” can be used to provide supplemental learning activities.
Flipped learning
Flipped learning is a teaching model that involves students watching video lectures or completing reading assignments outside of class, while class time is used for interactive activities and discussion. This model can be facilitated through the use of technology and has been shown to be effective in improving student engagement and understanding.
Further Resources
Academic Articles:
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Shute, V. J., & Psotka, J. (1996). Intelligent tutoring systems: past, present, and future. In K. F. K. VanLehn (Ed.), Architectures for intelligence: The 22nd Carnegie Mellon Symposium on Cognition (pp. 289-309). Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED398941
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Means, B., Toyama, Y., Murphy, R., Bakia, M., & Jones, K. (2010). Evaluation of evidence-based practices in online learning: A meta-analysis and review of online learning studies. US Department of Education. https://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/eval/tech/evidence-based-practices/finalreport.pdf
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Donovan, M. S., & Bransford, J. D. (2005). How students learn: Science in the classroom. National Academies Press. https://www.nap.edu/catalog/10126/how-students-learn-science-in-the-classroom
Online Articles:
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“10 Fun Classroom Activities to Help Students Practice Speaking English.” FluentU English Educator Blog. https://www.fluentu.com/blog/educator-english/esl-speaking-activities-for-adults/
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“10 Creative Ways to Use Interactive Whiteboards in the Classroom.” Edudemic. https://www.edudemic.com/10-creative-ways-to-use-interactive-whiteboards-in-the-classroom/
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“How to Differentiate Instruction: 15 Steps (with Pictures).” WikiHow. https://www.wikihow.com/Differentiate-Instruction
Videos:
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“The Benefits of Flipped Classrooms.” Edutopia. https://www.edutopia.org/video/benefits-flipped-classrooms
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“The Power of Peer-to-Peer Learning.” TEDx Talks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvZ8Wvf6T1k
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“Digital Education Revolution: John Monash Science School.” Department of Education and Training Victoria. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Un7JIu_-n0M
