Journal Review 5

Does This Really Work?
The Keys to Implementing New Technology
While Providing Evidence That Technology is Successful.
By Sara Sawtelle

Today many school districts across the nation are using technology that is dated, ineffective, and irrelevant to the present times. However, people and schools become so set in their technological ways, and attached to the programs that they are comfortable using, it can be hard to let go and adapt newer technological opportunities. The purpose of this article is not only to implement new technology, but to prove the true benefits of newer options. The approach taken to proof the effectiveness of these programs is based on The Scientific Method. While most people only think of The Scientific Method when it comes to conducting science experience or chemistry projects, the author looks at this task an experiment in its own right.
Stage 1: To Create a Hypothesis, or develop a plan to determine how beneficial the new program will be. Stage 2: Plan an Experiment. They Do this by asking important questions, and covering all the basis so as to be able to effectively stand by their technological updates. Stage 3: Preparation, this involves getting all the key players and backers of the project trained in the subject area so that they can effectively prove the software’s viability. That way they will be able to seamlessly integrate the test program into the curriculum. Stage 4: Testing the Predictions, this involves the actual implementation of the software into the test area, and having the teachers that were trained in its usage help to make sure the programs run smoothly. The final state is Stage 5: Adjustments, going through and working out the kinks in the system so to say, and testing its results. Was the new program more effective than past ones? Were noticeably significant increases in the subject material documented?
The school was able to effectively document results, demonstrate progress, and implement an innovative technology into the school.

Question 1: Was this an effective way to take a step toward the future?
Answer 2: In my recent observations and deductions, it is becoming increasingly apparent how reluctant schools are toward adapting new technology, and utilizing it in their classrooms. Even though there is so much out there that can be gained by shifting focus to a technology based education, many educators are still digging their heels in the sand. So I think that an approach like this could be highly effective. It is presented in such a logical way that would make sense to educators across the board, and is thorough enough to be credible.

Question 2: How would I be able to use this method in my own classroom?
Answer 2: It has recently dawned on me that I am preparing to teach students with tools that have not been invented yet. With new gadgets like iPods, and USBs, and the constant evolution of the internet, it is has to even imagine what types of things will continue to pop up over the next 50 years. Many of these tools will undoubtedly be an asset to the education community and further solidify the material we are trying to teach to our students. It is also fair to assume that implementing these technologies in our classrooms will be met with hesitation and criticism; a Scientific Method based approach like this is really going to come in handy when trying to force our districts into the future.