Course Syllabus, EDU 241

Description:

This course is designed for students pursuing licensure in elementary and secondary education. Understanding how to effectively use technology in the classroom to facilitate teaching and learning is essential for teachers within all disciplines. In this class, we will investigate use of computer-based technology as a pedagogical tool to improve the teaching and learning process. By exploring productivity tools, educational software, and web-based information, and by developing web quests, newsletters, and other projects, prospective teachers will be able to better promote information literacy in K-12 students.

As part of this course, each teacher will be exposed to various theoretical frameworks which explain how students learn with computer-based technology. Furthermore, prospective teachers will also develop a professional electronic portfolio designed to showcase personal technology and educational skills, and provide a venue for reflection about what constitutes effective teaching.

Competencies:

Students will be able to...

  • Be able to define "information literacy" and its importance to teaching and learning.
  • Know historically significant events related to technology and their relevance in educational settings.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of computer-based technologies through various theoretical frameworks.
  • Evaluate electronic information sources and analyze their impact on student decision making.
  • Practice using personal/professional productivity tools such as word processing, PowerPoint, Excel, and electronic gradebook programs, such as Easy Grade Pro.
  • Develop an online learning module for K-12 classroom use that incorporates quality content with technology.
  • Develop an electronic portfolio that includes examples of teaching with technology projects based on the rubric for the assignment.
  • Explore current software available for teachers, including software that is discipline-specific, and learn how to use the software to enhance teaching and learning.
  • Learn to use computer-based technology to enhance teaching and learning by developing lesson plans for middle and high school age students.
  • Consider ethical and security issues related to use of computers and the Internet.
  • Satisfy all ISTE/NCATE standards for the preparation of pre-service teachers.
  • Satisfy MN Board of Teaching Standards related to this course:
Text:

There is no required text for the course. Readings are online and must be completed prior to in-class discussion. Questions are provided for each reading. These are collected and evaluated, and responses are then shared in class.

Assignments:

This course will have a number of assignments - some of which will be completed outside of class, and others that will be included as part of the classtime activities. The course incorporates both lecture/discussion assignments and hands-on technology-based projects to deliver course material. For a complete listing of assignments and grading rubrics, visit the Assignment section of this website.

Academic Honesty Policy:

As college students, and as future teachers who will work with, and serve as a model for young people, academic honesty is of paramount importance in this class and all classes at Gustavus. Please review the Academic Honesty Policy and the Honor Code within the General College Catalog.

In this class, assume that all assignments are individual unless otherwise indicated in the syllabus. We will most assuredly work together on some assignments. Since teaching and learning is a collaborative effort, this is essential. Your instructors will be very clear about when collaboration is appropriate.

Of equal importance is giving credit to others (materials, sources, individuals) when you incorporate their work within assignments you complete. Always use APA format when citing sources.

Be sure to abide by all copyright restrictions when using images, text, or other materials. Pay careful attention to any written statement at the end of a document, whether a journal article or electronic source and abide by the policy stated.

For assistance in understanding copyright and fair use in academia, visit the Purdue Copyright Management Center for a copy of the Checklist for Fair Use.

Academic dishonesty in any form will result in failure in this course and a referral to the Dean of Students for further action.

Grading System:

Points are converted to a percent and the grade is based on this scale.

94-100% A 74-79% C
92-93% A- 72-73% C-
90-91% B+ 70-71% D+
84-89% B 64-69% D
82-83% B- 63% and lower F
80-81% C+

*Both attendance and participation affect final grade. Grade can be elevated or reduced based on attendance and quality of participation in both small and large group activities. LATE WORK IS NEVER ACCEPTABLE unless you make prior arrangements with your instructors and there is a valid reason for delaying an assignment. Since we use an electronic gradebook, you may ask about your grade status in the course at any time.

Reference Materials

There are several quality journals, both online and in print, available on the topic of educational technology in the classroom. Here a just a few:

Learning Disabilities

If you have a documented learning disability that requires special accommodations please speak with your instructors the first day of class. We will work together with you to ensure reasonable accommodations within the context of the course and its goals.

Summary Comments

Lecture/discussion and work time will be scheduled. We will meet from 2:30-5:20 in the technology lab in Mattson Hall. We will schedule a mid-class break each day. Because this class meets only one day per week, it is imperative that you come to class with all assignments completed and that you are ready to learn!

Your instructors will both be involved in evaluating all projects.

There will be changes in this course as the semester progresses. As such, you are responsible for material covered in the readings and during class discussions. You are expected to be in class every day and to fully participate in course activities. Each of us has certain knowledge and computer skills... share your expertise in class and with classmates. We ALL have much to learn and share!