This online endorsement area emphasizes the art of integrating
technology into the elementary classroom. Tools such as word processing,
multimedia, databases, and spreadsheets are often the foundational tools at-hand
for K-8 practitioners. Methods of integrating these tools will be explored
in-depth
In addition to
these basics, this endorsement area explores technologies that enhance student
interactivity for authentic data collection using tools such as probeware,
digital photography, video, and the Internet.
The core set of five 3-credit
classes and a 15-hour field experience will prepare you to effectively apply
classroom technology skills in your curriculum. You will develop lesson plans
and activities based on your curricular interests.
These skills will
be valued within your profession as you participate in curriculum development
and technology committees. With strong educational technology skills, many
teachers also find their skills valued in corporate training departments.
EDTECH 202—Educational Technology—Classroom Applications
This foundational
course covers the use of spreadsheets, databases, word processing, and
presentation software in the classroom. The final exam in this course is the
Idaho Educational Technology Assessment. (3-credits, Fall, Spring, Summer)
EDTECH 331—Integrating Elementary Curriculum Using Software and
Tools
Integrates the
instruction of elementary language arts, mathematics, science, and social
studies curricula using instructional software, data collection hardware and
software (probeware), and tools such as interactive boards, personal digital
devices, etc. (3-credits, Fall, alternating years)
EDTECH 332—Integrating Internet Resources into the Curriculum
Incorporates
Internet research and the design of Web-based educational activities for the
classroom.(3-credits, Spring, alternating years)
EDTECH 333—Integrating Visual Technologies
Explore inquiry
and project-based learning using photography, scanning, drawing, editing, and
manipulating images with a variety of software. (3-credits, Spring, alternating years)
EDTECH 363—Field Experience: Implementing Technology into the
Classroom
Apply software,
visual technology, Internet resources, and other computer technology skills and
techniques in a classroom setting. 15 hours of observing and assisting K-8
students in technology supported curricular lessons. (1-credit, Fall, alternating years)
EDTECH 408—Integrating Technology into the Classroom Curriculum
Advanced
instruction in the educational applications of spreadsheets and databases.
Students are also introduced to basic networking and other hardware issues.
(3-credits, Fall, Spring, Summer)
Technical Skills
-
A comfortable level working with basic computer
tasks such as word processing, file management, spreadsheets, databases,
presentation software, and Internet.
-
Completed EDTECH 202—Educational
Technology—Classroom Applications or permission of the instructor.
-
Passed the Educational Technology Assessment
Integration
Skills
-
Basic understanding of choosing appropriate
tools to support curricular content.
-
Ability to align learning activities with state
or national standards.
-
Ability to design a basic lesson plan and
learning activities.
Hardware
-
Reliable access to a computer with Microsoft XP
or later OS, Office XP Office Suite, FrontPage.
-
Internet access (preferably high speed)
Do I have to be an elementary major to take classes?
No. The pre-endorsement is reserved
for elementary-level pre-service teachers, but the courses themselves are geared
to all teachers and pre-service teachers. Students who complete the entire
series receive a letter of completion for their professional portfolio.
How much do classes cost?
Working teachers and part-time
undergraduates pay the standard per-credit fee for undergraduate courses– plus
an online fee of $50 per credit, which amounts to $150 per course. Full-time
students pay only the $50-per-credit technology fee. Many students find they
recover at least that much through savings in travel, parking, and daycare. The
flexibility of fitting courses into demanding work schedules is an additional
value.
Do I have to take the classes in a specific order?
No. These classes can be taken in any
order. The field experience should be taken last, however.
Where do I take the courses?
All courses are online. However a
15-hour field experience, will be completed in a school setting.
What happens when I have technical problems?
Your online instructors understand
occasional technical problems. Classes are small so you can get the technical
assistance you need.
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