Technology+Strategies+that+Positively+Impact+Student+Learning

Much research proves that the use of technology positively affects student learning. John Schacter with the Milken exchange cites many studies and the results cited, both positive and negative. The question is not then, whether technology should be used, but rather which technology strategies should be used. The Center for Applied Special Technology ( CAST) is a great resource that allows teachers to learn and develop lessons that use technologies to reach every child. The Universal Design for Learning ( UDL) enables teachers to reach the diversity of all students while not abandoning the need to achieve at today's higher standards. Check out all the resources available at [] Another online tool is different survey sites. Teachers can develop surveys that students can take. In this way students can access their prior knowledge as it applies to the new topic that the teacher is presenting. Many of these sites will organize the information giving teachers much needed documentation as they plan their unit of study. Some of the more popular survey sites are: www.surveymonkey.com and www.pollcat.com In addition to online resources that are available teachers can utilize old favorites in new ways. Teachers can use word processing to create charts for students to plan their learning goals. McREL's Research has shown that when students take control of their own learning and set some of their own goals, their motivation is higher than when they pursue teacher-set goals. (Hom & Murphey, 1983) Organizing and Brainstorming software, such as Kidspiration can be used to have students organize their thoughts about a subject. Students can also use this software as they begin learning about new subject matter to produce graphic organizers