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Integrating Technology into the Classroom Scott M. Erardi, Director of Media Services, Central Connecticut State University |
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The traditional classroom has undergone a major
transformation since the day of chalkboards, overhead transparencies,
dittos and pencils. Today, students have no idea what a ditto is and
many cannot imagine attending a class without their iPods, laptops and
high speed wireless Internet connections. Numerous studies have shown
that classroom technologies significantly enhance the learning process,
and CCSU’s Media Services office has been maintaining the facilities and
equipment for these new technologies (while also providing assistance in
their effective classroom use) for some 10 years now. The University currently has 135 classrooms equipped with Internet access, speakers, projectors, cable television and DVD players. Each classroom also contains a screen and a switcher which allows faculty to switch between components with ease. In cooperation with specialized departments, Media Services will coordinate additional components such as Dolby digital surround sound, electronic blinds, lighting schemes, and document cameras. |
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These state-of-the-art
technologies add a level of excitement to classrooms, since they
encourage teaching to become more dynamic and interactive. Faculty
can now project presentations, Web sites, movies and support components
relating to the course. They can also project and zoom into
three-dimensional objects or pieces of paper using a document camera.
This teaching approach often increases understanding while holding the
students’ interest. |
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