Thursday, October 07, 2004

FIELD PAPER II PROPOSAL

I have been introduced to instructional technology through EDLF courses. Instructional technology, I learned, does not simply bring PCs and software application into schools. But rather, instructional technology encompasses a broader learning system.

A multidisciplinary approach to education best describes instructional technology. First, commonly regarded ethics of use are reinforced through direct learning. Technology ethics include respect for others’ work, respect for others as the audience, and respect for the integrity of your own work. One other common ethic emphasized is that not everything transmitted electronically is factual. This includes digital images, content, and other factoids.

The second aspect of the instructional technology learning system, I dub, is train the trainer. Since, educators cannot be expected to become technology experts, teachers work with instructional technology personnel for the most appropriate use of applications in classrooms. Third, the technology used for educational purposes are applied to enhance both the teaching and the learning experience. This is most important with the discovery of different learning styles. With the appropriate instructional technology, teachers now have alternative instructional tools which can deliver curriculum cost effectively.

As a technology professional, I appreciate the Curry School’s leadership in bringing technology application into the classroom. For this particular reason, I selected instructional technology as my BIS Capstone Project topic. Likewise, I would like to interview Dr. John Bunch and Dr. Glenn Bull for my second field paper.

Specifically, I would like to learn what is the Curry’s School’s position and philosophy on instructional technology. Second, I would like to learn the scope of instructional technology education being offered at the Curry School. For example, which applications are being taught to educators? Also, which audio/visual techniques and medium are included?

Administratively, I am interested in learning which institutions are involved with UVA’s instructional technology initiative, and to what degree are these partnerships organized. Second, what are the professional categories for instructional technology professionals outside of the Curry School? Do Curry faculty and administrative leaders participate in the national or international discourse on technology use in education, and to what degree do they participate?

What, if any, initiatives are being offered to introduce instructional technology to the developing world? Are Curry faculty interested in this particular aspect of education? If so, who are these faculty members and what like projects are they currently involved with? Finally, is there interest to bring Curry’s lessons learned and best practices into the developing world area by way of USAID, UN, and NGO grant participation?