Observation Report

I recently visited a large suburban high school to observe “Mr. A,” an Algebra II teacher. There were about 20 students seated in rows. Even though the class was mostly lecture-based, they were clearly engaged. Mr. A wore a voice projector around his neck; even though this is mostly for the benefit of students who have cochlear implants, it is also a good tool for classroom management because it ensures that the teacher’s voice will overpower any chitchat.

Mr. A explained various word problems on a Smartboard. Most of the problems included images for visual support. He also used TI-nspire CAS Teacher Software. This includes a graphing calculator that can generate 2D and 3D graphs. It also has a feature for rotating planes. He displayed the range of possible coordinates for each problem by highlighting the space between lines. Even though he used a lot of technology in his lecture, the students had to take notes the old-fashioned way.

Post-observation Interview

Q: How was teaching different before you had access to the technological tools at your disposal?

A: Time spent creating material has been greatly reduced.  Time spent presenting material is greatly reduced since I do not have to draw it in chalk.  The quality of the lesson has greatly improved with multiple ways visually to look at a problem.

Q: What is the most challenging thing about using technology in the classroom?

A: When something breaks there is no funding to fix it or maintain it.  Most technology is purchased by the teacher.  This takes years to be able to afford.

Q: What are the most common modifications and accommodations you make when it comes to technology?

A: Printed copies of the lesson are easily made.  When you teach in chalk a copy is hard to make unless you have a camera.  You can change the lesson on the fly and bring up items from the internet.

Q: How satisfied are you with the extent of technology integration at your school?

A: Not very.  Only my classroom has a mimeo board , mic with speaker, and Ti-nspire.  Most teachers are still chalk and talk due to funding.

Q: Other than Smart Board, TI-nspire CAS software and your cochlear implant microphone, what other forms of technology would you like to use in the future?

A: Handheld wireless computers for students to take notes and receive assignments.  Eliminate paper.

           For technology integration to work, two criteria need to be met. First, teachers must be willing to learn about new forms of technology and make changes in their instruction. Second, school boards must account for technology integration in their budgets. Not all teachers are willing to dig into their own pockets like Mr. A, nor should they be. The bottom line is that a paperless classroom has the potential to save students, teachers, parents and administrators a lot of time and money. Teachers will save countless hours in grading and other paperwork. It will be easier for students to keep up when they are absent. Even though the initial costs may be high, schools that properly accommodate their students’ needs will avoid even costlier government sanctions and funding cuts.