Technology in the Classroom

There are SO many ways to use technology in art education. “As technology expands and improves, younger children are becoming more tech savvy”  It is important to use technology for many reasons, one reason is: “As technology becomes easier to use and early childhood software proliferates, young children’s use of technology becomes more widespread. Therefore, early childhood educators have a responsibility to critically examine the impact of technology on children and be prepared to use technology to benefit children.”  Knowledge and literacy in technology is becoming a crucial aspect to master in our society.  Children should be exposed to it in as many positive ways as possible. Another reason to have technology in the classroom is because teaching could be more effective when using it.  Teachers could use a Powerpoint to post pictures of artwork, to give mini lessons and backgrounds on famous artists, to explain procedures so that everyone can see… Another reason technology is important to incorporate in the classroom is because "Students gain a sense of empowerment from learning to control the computer and to use it in ways they associate with the real world." Technology is valued within our culture. It is something that costs money and that bestows the power to add value. By giving students technology tools, we are implicitly giving weight to their school activities. Students are very sensitive to this message that they, and their work, are important.”  Using technology and sophisticated means to teach children, sends the message that school is important.  Some ways technology could be incorporated in the Art classroom could be with:

·         Blogs to post the children’s artwork and get the parents involved and interacting with you

·         Google Sketch-up

·         Powerpoints to present the projects (children can create powerpoints too!)

·         Youtube videos on artisis

·         Internet to research things about their art project

·         Email to remind parents about art events

*http://www.ehow.com/list_6071749_ways-use-technology-elementary-classroom.html

*http://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/effectsstudents.html

*cct.edc.org