Integrating Technology into Social Studies

Chapter 12 explored the value of integrating technology into Social Studies.  This connection is vital to the success of our students.  Therefore, it is essential to have them prepared by providing purposeful and meaningful experiences.  Our goal as educators should be to motivate, challenge, and scaffold them into being socially responsible adults.  The text suggests using strategies such as integrating adventure learning, web quests, or virtual fields into the lessons.  However, there are many obstacles to overcome.  The following are advantages and disadvantages teachers often face in the classroom.

Disadvantages of Integrating Technology 

Technology has greatly impacted Social Studies.  There is more to learn about the world than ever before.  Social Studies is the interconnection of people and the Earth.  It is constantly and dramatically changing.  The author states that Social Studies is a “sleeping giant” ( Roblyer, p. 334).  It could be more productive if the initiative was present and used appropriately.  Another challenge is that as a result of state testing, the focus has been on math and language arts for many years.  Each day, only a limited amount of time is allotted to Social Studies.  There is a wide range of topics to teach in a short amount of time.  The subject area is broad.  Many critics say that “the content of history courses has become diluted” ( Roblyer, p. 336).   Therefore, limiting the focus on some of the most important content.  With limited budgets, school districts are reluctant to purchase expensive Social Studies software. The journal entry  below by Ahmet BAYTAK focuses on the viewpoint from children.  The article found that there was an overwhelming amount of misuse and misconceptions about technology. http://www.iejee.com/3_2_2011/3_2_139_151.pdf

Advantages of Integrating Technology

More than ever before, technology has helped teach us more about social change.  It broadens the potential for social studies.  It allows students to compete internationally.  Students have to be more globally aware.  Technology appeals to more learning types and closes the achievement gap.  Technology has changed the way people learn.  Although the technology is costly, there are many free options some teachers turn to.  In the article below, Stephen A. Rose and Phyllis Maxey Fernlund emphasize the importance of teachers re-evaluating the criteria previously used to determine if a particular technological tool should be integrated into the Social Studies lesson.  The article suggests educators need to do more research.  Secondly, they want to make sure this technology is aligned with curriculum standards to gain the most benefits.  http://www.learner.org/workshops/socialstudies/pdf/session5/5.UsingTechnologyLearning.pdf

 

The following are specific activities and programs introduced in the chapter.

1.      GeoThentics, a geography website, provides hands-on activities and strategies.

http://www.citejournal.org/vol9/iss3/socialstudies/article1.cfm

2.      Simulated Problem Solving Environments reproduce concepts which need to be clarified.

http://site.aace.org/pubs/foresite/GamesAndSimulations1.pdf

3.      Information Visualizations communicate ideas visually.

http://www.perceptualedge.com/articles/visual_business_intelligence/geographical_data_  visualization.pdf

4.      Digital Storytelling uses digitally produced images and audio to retell history.

http://digitalstorytelling.coe.uh.edu/

5.      Online mapping websites gather ideas for teaching geography.

http://education.nationalgeographic.com/education/multimedia/interactive/maps-tools-adventure-island/kd/?ar_a=3