Using Technology in Biology: Reflections

My overall goal for this course is to refine a process for selecting, evaluating and implementing tools in my Biology classroom. This is a goal that directly aligns with my collaborative inquiry work.

As, I’m planning my goal for this course, I have several criteria I would like to meet.

Criteria:
1. Improve student conceptual understanding of biological concepts.
2. Evaluate digital tools designed for conceptual understanding. (This links to the ISTE National Educational Technology Standard of evaluating tools based on the appropriateness for the task.)
3. Use digital tools with thoughtful and cohesive pedagogy in my Biology class.
4. Select tools using a process that is efficient and timely. This process should allow me to consistently find and use new tools as they are updated, but also allow this process to be less time consuming.

As I work to meet the overall goal, I think I will have to meet several sub-goals. Some of these sub-goals may be more directly approached through this course. Other of these sub-goals will be approached through my work with my collaborative team.
1. Identify search techniques and sites with research tested digital tools
2. Use an evaluation template to evaluate tools based on conceptual and pedagogical criteria.
3. Identify digital tools that serve as critical input for students to grasp ideas in Biology in concert with other pedagogical strategies.
4. Use and evaluate a variety of digital tools. Include new tools to me and new tools to students. These should be in addition to tools I am currently using: wiki, videos, animations, and podcasts.