Integrating Computers into the Classroom

Option 1:
In my second grade class, they are now doing a unit on inventions and famous inventors. I am thinking that I would allow for the students to research famous inventors in Maine on the internet. They would use the internet along with reference books as resources for finding information on their particular inventor. Then individually they would choose one of the inventions that their inventor is famous for, and they would make a model of that particular invention. Then using the I-movie program on the computer, they would make a movie about their inventor and the invention. In the movie they would dress up like the inventor, and would explain a little about the inventor’s life. They would also explain what their invention is and how it works. This activity allows for the students to research on the internet, and also use a creative program within the computer.

Option 2:
An idea for incorporating computers into a writing assignment or unit would be the use of podcasts in the classroom. For this assignment, the students would be working on writing a narrative story about a favorite trip they have taken. The assignment would start off like any writing assignment; they would brainstorm and then they would work on writing their stories. Then, once students were done writing their stories and had met all the requirements, their next step would be to use podcasts. On the podcasts the student would be able to record their story that they had written. Through using the podcasts students are learning about a new tool and also with the posting of the podcasts, family members would be able to go and listen to their students’ work. It encourages students to learn about technology and it also allows for the parents to be involved in their student’s work.

Option 3:
Another option for integrating computers into curriculum would be the simple idea of writing stories on the computer. Instead of having students write in journals or in a notebook, have them sit at a computer and type their story. Their stories do not have to be long, but enough for them to get used to using the computer and word documents. While sitting at a computer doing writing, it just mixes things up for the students. They will think that typing on the computer is super cool; it is just a change of scenery for them. We also talked about websites and programs that allow for students to make webs when first starting writing. They can use programs like Inspiration and create webs that will help them find ideas to write about. Then when it comes time to actually type their story, they can navigate around Word and figure out how things work. They are doing a simple task of writing, yet they are learning another tool using technology.

Option 4:
We had talked about in class the idea of using Wiki Jr. for younger students. For a unit on the rainforests, I would allow the students to pick a particular aspect about rainforests (i.e. animals, plants, climate, food etc). The students would do their own research on the topic (in class). Then they would create a Wiki Jr. page for their particular topic. They would touch upon the most important information about their specific topic. We would post their individual Wiki sites on the internet for all to see. Their parents and other schoolmates would be able to look at all the hard work they had done researching for their topic and also the hard work they had done creating an educational page.

Option 5:
Another simple option for integrating computers into curriculum is allowing students to work on online activities. A subject that kids would think they would not be able to work on the computers with is Math. Instead of having students sit at their desk working on boring math worksheets allow them to work on the computer. There are websites that allow for children to practice mathematical skills. The teacher would have to research ahead of time to find appropriate web pages that allow for the students to still learn and practice their math, but they are out there. Again it is a simple way for kids to get used to using computers and allows them to get away from their desk and have a little fun while still learning.