Self Assessment Questions (Chapter 2)

1. Describe the relative advantage of using graphic tools to help students learn new concepts.
Answer: Graphic tools allow for the manipulation of images to illustrate documents and web pages. As a teacher, you can use these graphic tools to create pictures to add another dimension to the information being presented in a lesson. If the teacher has their own website for the class graphic tools can be used here also. Also, if the information being taught is new, it is often times very helpful to graphically organize it. This can be done in the form of charts, concept maps, etc.


2. In Phase 2 of the Technology Integration Planning Model (TIP), teachers focus on the outcomes expected as a result of integrating technology into instruction. List four methods teachers can use to assess the outcomes of the plan.
Answer: Four methods teachers can use to assess the outcomes of the plan include focusing on the results and not the processes, make statements observable and measurable, use written tests to asses skill achievement outcomes, and use evaluation criteria checklists to assess complex tasks or products.


3. Describe two advantages of required school and district policies such as policies regarding Internet use, legal and ethical use, and equity.
Answer: Congress passed the Children's Internet Protection Act to help schools protect children from internet materials which could be harmful to them. Many schools have children sign acceptable use policies that explain the risk involved in Internet use, outline proper internet behavior, and asks students if they agree to these policies. This was a very good idea because now students are better informed how to properly and safely use the internet. Policies have been made which make schools responsible for ensuring equitable access and use of technologies to all students especially those from low SES families, minorities, and students with disabilities. This is very important because technology continues to expand and become more important in society today and students should know how to use it.