Refining the EDvolution: Increasing the Integration of Educational Technology into Content-Specific Teaching Methods Courses
Abstract: We suspect, based on student and regional teacher feedback that middle and secondary pre-service teacher candidates lack certain educational technology competencies needed to be an educational professional. Although there are varied opportunities for educational technology integration within pedagogy courses and field practicums, there has been a lack of integration in the content methods courses. With a new team of instructors in place, there has been an increased interest in a collaborative effort towards cohesive technology integration across methods courses. The STEAM education disciplines (e.g. science, mathematics, family & consumer science, music education) are a specific area of focus for this problem of practice inquiry. Our questions are (1) How do we better integrate educational technology into content-specific teaching methods courses? (2) How do we, as a middle and secondary teacher preparation program, communicate and collaborate to establish a strong cohesive connection between all program courses as it relates to technology integration? To address concerns regarding technology integration into content teaching methods classes, we have adopted a multi-pronged approach. Strategies include the development of Program Coordinator’s Working Group, discussion at college-level educator preparation meetings, support through The EDvolution Center, strategic integration of educational technology tools/frameworks into coursework, and instructor professional development.