Utilizing Technology in the Classroom

In a recent interview with Mr. Scott Szuksta of Alvirne High school, we discussed his utilization of technology within his various levels of social studies classes.  

Background: 
Mr. Szuksta is a social studies teacher who currently teaches World History, American History, and US Government.  His students range from freshmen to seniors, and his class levels include Workshop, A/B level, and Advanced Placement.  Mr. Szuksta is a well respected teacher by students and staff alike.  He is often the source of advisement for technological assistance among staff members.  Mr. Szuksta utilizes technology in his classroom on a daily basis and also facilitates the students' use of technology in their projects and assignments.

Using technology in the classroom:
Mr. Szuksta uses technology to accomplish four main goals:
 1) Increase student engagement
 2) Encourage group participation
 3) Provide frequent interaction and feedback
 4) Provide a connection to real world experts 

Tools used on a regular basis:
1) Google Drive - allows for access to files anywhere with internet access, great tool for collaboration, and FREE with Google account!
2) Poll Everywhere - allows teachers to poll students by using any mobile device.  Results can be easily graphed and shared with the class to provide immediate feedback.

3) Socrative - gives teachers the chance to prompt students with questions and have students respond via a  mobile device.  Teachers can create a variety of exercises including, exit tickets, quizzes and games.  The data from the results is automatically calculated and charted.
4) Turning Point - "clicker" software that allows for student polling.  Students do not need their own personal device, only the provided clicker.
5) Edmodo - allows student and teachers to connect and share ideas via an appropriate social networking tool.  This site is set up much like a Facebook page, so students enjoy using it.

6) Quizlet- promotes student learning outside of the traditional classroom setting.  Teachers can create study materials and games for students to practice outside of school.
7) Google Sites - easy way for teachers or students to create web pages.  Websites can be designed for specific classes where students can access and post information.

Benefits of using technology in the classroom

Using a wide variety of technological tools in the classroom provides students with a more interactive learning environment.  By putting information out there in ways that they are used to getting it at home, they are more engaged and willing to participate.  The tools also provide quick and accurate data analysis that can be used for visual diagrams, charts, and graphs.

Incorporating technology into project based assessments

In addition to the above tools Mr. Szuksta uses on a regular basis, he also tries to incorporate technology "options" within his project based assessments.  Often when a large project is assigned, students are given choices of how they will present their work.  For example, when his students complete their final project for Animal Farm, some students present by creating a poem or song, some do a PowerPoint presentation, and some create their own movies summarizing the book.  By doing this, he is creating  an environment that is accommodating for all learning styles.  

Negative aspects of using technology

Alvirne does not have consistent wireless capabilities throughout the building, making some of the web-based tools difficult to use at times.  There are Chromebook carts that have wireless "hotspots" attached to them; however, they are not always available for use.  Also, when using tools that require students to have a personal device such as a laptop or a cell phone, there are often students who do not have access to these items.

Moving forward 

The technological infrastructure is a hot topic of conversation between administration and the school board.  As a district, we are currently trying to address many of these issues to install more up to date technology within the building.  Once this is updated, teachers will have more access to technological tools within their classroom.  Mr. Szuksta has given multiple trainings on technology implementation during teacher workshop days.  These trainings are well attended and very beneficial to teachers looking to incorporate technology in the classroom.