To help better understand the use of technology in education I performed a random job using tools from which I was unable to choose. I needed to prepare a PB&J sandwich using only a spatula, small bowl, and dinner plate. Click the video below to see if I was successful!
This task seemed silly, and I was a bit concerned I wouldn't be able to perform the task with such tools. But I realized there could be worse kitchen utensils and I could improvise, but there could definitely be better ones too.
This task helped solidify the TPACK (technological pedagogical content knowledge) framework, created by MSU scholars Dr. Punya Mishra and Dr. Matthew Koehler. This framework is centered on three knowledge areas: the content educators teach, how the educators teach or present their content, and the use of technology.
When thinking about these knowledge areas I struggle with the use of technology. As an educator I need to first concentrate on the learning objectives and what it is I want my students to understand. Utilizing a certain form of technology in my course should only be because it will solidify the content to my students. As stated by Kereluik, Koehler, & Mishra (2011), "to subvert technology for education teachers must be able to identify and acknowledge technology with specific pedagogical value" (p. 17).
The specific method of technology should aid in the facilitation of deep understanding and be attainable by all students. To share opinions on ethical court cases, my students utilize D2L (Desire to Learn) discussions. This use of technology supports the students' connection to understanding. Other methods of technology could surely be used, but would they be as successful? In the end my tools for constructing a PB&J were sub par. While they did work, a simple butter knife could have been used to better construct the sandwich.
Reference:
Kereluik, K., Koehler, M. J., & Mishra, P. (2011) On Learning to Subvert Signs: Literacy, Technology and the TPACK Framework. The California Reader, 44(2), 17.
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