Ed Tech Co-Op

In this podcast, David and Mark discuss curriculum-based (as opposed to tool-focused) technology integration in K-12 classrooms.  They discuss the Learning Activity Types approach to tech integration developed by Mark Hofer and Judi Harris at the College of William & Mary.  This five phase process encourages teachers to first identify the learning goals for a particular lesson/unit/project, take into account the classroom context and student needs, select and sequence appropriate content-based learning activity types, incorporate formative and summative assessment, and finally to consider technology options that are linked with the selected learning activity types and assessments.  In this approach, the selection and use of technology flows from the learning goals, student needs and learning activities rather than beginning with the technologies themselves.  

Here are some articles that appeared in Learning and Leading with Technology may be a helpful starting place to learn more about this approach.  More information can be found at the Learning Activity Types Web site - http://activitytypes.wmwikis.net

Harris, J., & Hofer, M. (2009). “Grounded” technology integration: Planning with curriculum-based learning activity types. Learning & Leading With Technology, 37(2), 22-25.