Learning objectives
After studying this chapter, you should be able to:
• Reflect on your own beliefs, attitudes and abilities regarding digital technologies and be aware of the position digital technology holds in today's educational environment
• Identify current theories and practices associated with the use of digital technology in F-10 and senior secondary classrooms and locate digital technologies in the Australian Curriculum and the Early Years Learning Framework
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of pedagogy when implementing digital technologies in twenty-first-century classrooms
• Source appropriate digital technologies for use in the classroom
Introduction
It is hard to imagine a world without digital technologies. They influence every facet of our lives, including our education, health, leisure activities, finances and jobs. You may have heard different terms for digital technologies such as information technology (IT) and information and communication technology (ICT). In this chapter, we will use the terms digital technology and ICT interchangeably. In the first section of this chapter ‘Digital technologies and you’, we will explore both your personal and educational experiences with ICT as well as investigate your attitudes towards digital technologies in education. ‘Digital technologies in schools’ explores the current situation in early childhood, primary and secondary school contexts. You will be given an insight into theoretical frameworks, curriculum implications and practical considerations for twenty-first-century classrooms. The third section discusses pedagogical theories surrounding the use of digital technologies in classrooms and the fourth section, ‘Using digital technologies in class’, provides numerous suggestions and practical information on how digital technologies can be used for teaching and learning in your classroom. This is followed by tips on how to source appropriate technologies, and what you should be teaching your students.
OPENING VIGNETTE
QR codes are a type of augmented reality that are commonly used in day-to-day life. Throughout this chapter you can use QR codes to quickly access additional interactive content. Watch this (2:30 minutes) video for an explanation of how to make and use QR codes: https://youtu.be/3JX7a2hClVs .
Throughout this chapter we will mention a number of programs, apps, games and other tools that you could use in your teaching. If you are not familiar with some or any of these digital technologies, search for them on the internet to find out more. Remember that these are just suggestions and that new technology emerges every day.