SlideShare ist ein Scribd-Unternehmen logo
1 von 3
Downloaden Sie, um offline zu lesen
WHITE PAPER:

                  Teaching Styles, Equipment Challenges and Optimal
               Technology Support Furniture for Educational Environments

                                       Bretford Manufacturing, Inc.

I.      Overview
Technology is revolutionizing the way we think, work and play. As the use of projectors, flat panels,
laptops, document cameras and other electronic equipment in K-12 and higher education environments
increases, the methods in which teachers teach and students learn is also evolving. The growing use of
technology in schools has also created a fundamental need for supportive furniture to house, move, store
and safeguard this expensive and precious equipment.

The purpose of this white paper is to outline the most widely used teaching styles for both K-12 and
higher education environments today, explain the positive influence of technology on teaching and
learning, review the challenges involved with using technology in schools, then describe the different
types of technology support furniture available and the role this furniture plays in caring for the equipment
and ultimately enhancing the overall teaching/learning process.


II.     Teaching Styles
Based on the book “Teaching with Style” by Anthony Grasha, professor of psychology at the University of
Cincinnati, an understanding of teaching and learning styles can help faculty enhance teaching. Grasha
breaks these styles into four key clusters:

      1. The expert/formal authority cluster tends toward teacher-centered classrooms in which
         information is presented and students receive knowledge.

      2. The personal model/expert/formal authority cluster is a teacher-centered approach that
         emphasizes modeling and demonstration. This approach encourages students to observe
         processes as well as content.

      3. The facilitator/personal model/expert cluster is a student-centered model for the classroom.
         Teachers design activities, social interactions, or problem-solving situations that allow students to
         practice the processes for applying course content.

      4. The delegator/facilitator/expert cluster places much of the learning burden on the students.
         Teachers provide complex tasks that require student initiative, and often group work, to complete.

While the optimal teaching style varies depending on the educator, grade level, class size and curriculum,
one point remains clear: all of these styles can be greatly enhanced with the addition of technology
products.


III.   Technology Advantages
More and more studies show that technology integration in the curriculum improves students' learning
processes and outcomes. For example, teachers who recognize computers as problem-solving tools
change the way they teach. Students are naturally more engaged in learning when using these powerful
tools.
According to the magazine Edutopia: What Works in Public Education, another reason for technology
                                                           st
integration is the necessity of today's students to have 21 Century skills. These skills include:
•   Personal and social responsibility
    •   Planning, critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity
    •   Strong communication skills, both for interpersonal and presentation needs
    •   Cross-cultural understanding
    •   Visualizing and decision-making
    •   Knowing how and when to use technology and choosing the most appropriate tool for the task
There is a growing body of evidence that technology integration positively affects student achievement
and academic performance. The Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET) found
that, when used in collaborative learning methods and leadership that is aimed at improving the school
through technology planning, technology impacts achievement in content area learning, promotes higher-
order thinking and problem solving skills, and prepares students for the workforce.


IV.     Technology Challenges
While the advantages of technology are evident, educators are faced with the responsibility of operating
and caring for the equipment. At the same time, they must determine the best way to integrate the
technology into the classroom. Some of the most common issues include:

Mobility. Many schools can’t afford a projector and laptops in every room so the equipment must be
shared and oftentimes moved from room-to-room or even building-to-building. Since there isn’t a lot of
time between classes during the school day, those moving the equipment – sometimes an educator, but
usually a facilities or AV manager – must bring it to its next location. If the technology arrives late, it can
be disruptive and interfere with the lesson.

Storage. Evenings, weekends, summer and holiday breaks. These are all times when the technology
products are least likely to be in use. Opposite the challenge of getting the equipment from place to place,
educators need an efficient and safe, secure place to put their electronics and accessories – wires,
cables, batteries, etc. – when not in use.

Safety. Keeping the equipment free from damage can be an issue, especially during transport. Flat
panels, document cameras and laptops are fragile and, if damaged, can lead to a loss in productivity as
well as expensive repair costs. Educators may experience a disconnect in the overall teaching/learning
process if they are without the tools they normally use. More important is the safety of the people using
the technology, especially children. Some of the equipment is heavy and made with breakable materials
like glass, which can cause injury.

Security. Particularly in a down economy, technology theft is on the rise. Schools, especially at the high
school and higher education levels, must take extra precautions to ensure the valuable equipment they
use every day is securely locked up and protected from theft.

Ease of Use. Not only is it vital for the technology to be easy to use, but it must also be easy to access
and reconfigure in support of the different teaching styles. If the technology isn’t set up properly or if it’s
difficult to reach or use the accessories, the time spent learning will be impacted, causing everyone
unnecessary frustration.


V.       Technology Support Furniture
Based on the common teaching styles and the challenges associated with using technology in a school
setting, the evidence clearly ties back to the need for specialized furniture to support the electronics
equipment used for teaching and learning – and the ramifications of not having this type of furniture.
Below are some of the fundamental technology and media furniture categories. These are the products
that are most likely to be used with laptops, computers, projectors, flat panels and other professional
electronic equipment in schools:

Laptop and AV Carts. Laptop carts can store, secure and charge dozens of computers while safely
transporting them. AV carts can include everything from freestanding flat panel carts to full-on technology
carts that incorporate space for laptops, flat panels, projectors, document cameras and more. They are
typically made from highly durable steel materials and include safety or keyed locks to keep the
equipment inside when not in use. Many have UL certification, which means they have passed multiple
weight and load tests ensuring the product is safe for children and adults. They tend to have multiple
shelving units and/or 19" rack mounts inside to house all the electronics, cords and accessories needed.
And most are on casters, which is especially ideal in schools where the technology must be shared.

Tables. Training tables with power and data ports can be used for small group sessions or they can be
pushed and ganged together for training, conference or other group activities. They can also be folded
and stored when not in use. Some large conference tables are available with flip-up doors for access to
power and data ports. These tables can be reconfigured, depending on the size and style of the room.
Some tables are great space savers, allowing for a computer to be tucked and locked out of the way
when they aren’t being used, which is perfect for computer labs, libraries and educational training rooms.

Projection Screens. Portable screens for the floor and tabletop give educational trainers on-the-go
presenting capability. At the same time, wall mounted remote-controlled screens are perfect for
permanent installation in larger spaces, like lecture halls.

Lecterns. From simple styles to complex units that provide space for video projection, lecterns are a
necessity in presentation environments such as conference rooms, classrooms or lecture halls. Lectern
styles range from mobile to traditional to tabletop, and use varies depending on the electronics equipment
and the overall size and style of the room.

Carrels. Carrels come in a variety of styles, including student access stations, study carrels, and
technology carrels, and most have the ability to add power. They are primarily for applications like
independent study and testing and can usually be found in libraries, study areas and some classrooms.

Utility Trucks/Stands. Utility trucks can be used to move media and other small accessories like power
cords, cables, headphones, etc. Most trucks are slim and sleek so they don’t take up a lot of space. And
because they are on wheels, the can be easily navigated into small corners or stored in closets.


VI.     Conclusion
Truth be told, technology is constantly improving. And technology advancements will inevitably continue
to change the way teachers teach and students learn. But one fact is constant: as long as technology is
used in K-12 and higher education facilities, there will continue to be a primary need for technology
support furniture.


Resources:
   • “Teaching with Style” by Anthony Grasha, professor of psychology at the University of Cincinnati
   • Edutopia: What Works in Public Education (www.edutopia.org)




                                                                                                    11000 Seymour Avenue
                                                                                           Franklin Park, Illinois 60131 USA
                                                                                             Toll Free Phone 800-521-9614
                                                                                                       Phone 847-678-2545
                                                                                                Toll Free Fax 800-343-1779
                                                                                                          Fax 847-678-0852
                                                                                                           www.bretford.com

Weitere ähnliche Inhalte

Was ist angesagt?

TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS
TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESSTECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS
TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESSirshad narejo
 
Technology: - Changing the face of Education
Technology: - Changing the face of EducationTechnology: - Changing the face of Education
Technology: - Changing the face of EducationAshiq Muhammed
 
Impact of technology on learning
Impact of technology on learningImpact of technology on learning
Impact of technology on learningMukul kale
 
Digital Technology in Education
Digital Technology in EducationDigital Technology in Education
Digital Technology in EducationAlvin Zalzos
 
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.anusha khan
 
ICT in Teaching & Learning
ICT in Teaching & LearningICT in Teaching & Learning
ICT in Teaching & LearningMazhar Laliwala
 
Future of technology in education 2019
Future of technology in education 2019Future of technology in education 2019
Future of technology in education 2019Sanket Bambodkar
 
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in Tanzania
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in TanzaniaChallenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in Tanzania
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in TanzaniaAyoub Kafyulilo
 
Short introduction to educational technology for sharing
Short introduction to educational technology for sharingShort introduction to educational technology for sharing
Short introduction to educational technology for sharingMike Sharples
 
Using ICT in teaching and learning
Using ICT in teaching and learningUsing ICT in teaching and learning
Using ICT in teaching and learningsanaafatima
 
Technology integration in education in Tanzania
Technology integration in education in TanzaniaTechnology integration in education in Tanzania
Technology integration in education in TanzaniaAyoub Kafyulilo
 
Technology and Education
Technology and EducationTechnology and Education
Technology and EducationUfraShahidkhan
 
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technology
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with TechnologyTechnology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technology
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technologye_lomax
 
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning ProcessESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Processsenthil-elt
 

Was ist angesagt? (20)

TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS
TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESSTECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS
TECHNOLOGY IN THE TEACHING LEARNING PROCESS
 
Technology: - Changing the face of Education
Technology: - Changing the face of EducationTechnology: - Changing the face of Education
Technology: - Changing the face of Education
 
Impact of technology on learning
Impact of technology on learningImpact of technology on learning
Impact of technology on learning
 
Digital Technology in Education
Digital Technology in EducationDigital Technology in Education
Digital Technology in Education
 
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.
Future of Technology in Education and How Can Pakistan Take Advantage.
 
ICT Centered Teaching & Learning
ICT Centered Teaching  & LearningICT Centered Teaching  & Learning
ICT Centered Teaching & Learning
 
ICT in Teaching & Learning
ICT in Teaching & LearningICT in Teaching & Learning
ICT in Teaching & Learning
 
Ppt ict
Ppt ictPpt ict
Ppt ict
 
Future of technology in education 2019
Future of technology in education 2019Future of technology in education 2019
Future of technology in education 2019
 
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in Tanzania
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in TanzaniaChallenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in Tanzania
Challenges and opportunities of integrating technology in education in Tanzania
 
Short introduction to educational technology for sharing
Short introduction to educational technology for sharingShort introduction to educational technology for sharing
Short introduction to educational technology for sharing
 
Using ICT in teaching and learning
Using ICT in teaching and learningUsing ICT in teaching and learning
Using ICT in teaching and learning
 
Technology in Education
Technology in EducationTechnology in Education
Technology in Education
 
ICT in Classroom
ICT in ClassroomICT in Classroom
ICT in Classroom
 
The importance of ict
The importance of ictThe importance of ict
The importance of ict
 
Technology integration in education in Tanzania
Technology integration in education in TanzaniaTechnology integration in education in Tanzania
Technology integration in education in Tanzania
 
Technology and Education
Technology and EducationTechnology and Education
Technology and Education
 
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technology
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with TechnologyTechnology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technology
Technology Integration and Teacher Education: Learning with Technology
 
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning ProcessESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process
ESP: Impact of Technology in the Teaching-Learning Process
 
Ict ppt
Ict pptIct ppt
Ict ppt
 

Andere mochten auch

WEB Taikomųjų Programų Kūrimas
WEB Taikomųjų Programų KūrimasWEB Taikomųjų Programų Kūrimas
WEB Taikomųjų Programų KūrimasTomas Dabasinskas
 
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - Rosenberg
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - RosenbergLe Vie Della Tecnologia - Rosenberg
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - RosenbergMargherita Paradisi
 
10 most fascinating deserts
10  most  fascinating  deserts 10  most  fascinating  deserts
10 most fascinating deserts shomikz
 
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書env25
 
Two ancestors of today's america
Two ancestors of today's americaTwo ancestors of today's america
Two ancestors of today's americaPedro Morales
 
9 lives of leadership
9 lives of leadership9 lives of leadership
9 lives of leadershipshomikz
 
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query Processing
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query ProcessingBitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query Processing
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query ProcessingKyong-Ha Lee
 

Andere mochten auch (20)

Java Champion Wanted
Java Champion WantedJava Champion Wanted
Java Champion Wanted
 
Zerrenda
ZerrendaZerrenda
Zerrenda
 
Digital PR e nuove professioni
Digital PR e nuove professioniDigital PR e nuove professioni
Digital PR e nuove professioni
 
WEB Taikomųjų Programų Kūrimas
WEB Taikomųjų Programų KūrimasWEB Taikomųjų Programų Kūrimas
WEB Taikomųjų Programų Kūrimas
 
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - Rosenberg
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - RosenbergLe Vie Della Tecnologia - Rosenberg
Le Vie Della Tecnologia - Rosenberg
 
09 01 P1
09 01 P109 01 P1
09 01 P1
 
Candidiasis invasiva
Candidiasis invasivaCandidiasis invasiva
Candidiasis invasiva
 
10 most fascinating deserts
10  most  fascinating  deserts 10  most  fascinating  deserts
10 most fascinating deserts
 
Paypal Chekout
Paypal ChekoutPaypal Chekout
Paypal Chekout
 
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書
【労働者健康福祉機構】平成20年度環境報告書
 
Inside the Physician Mind
Inside the Physician MindInside the Physician Mind
Inside the Physician Mind
 
The Leaderful Fieldbook
The Leaderful FieldbookThe Leaderful Fieldbook
The Leaderful Fieldbook
 
Two ancestors of today's america
Two ancestors of today's americaTwo ancestors of today's america
Two ancestors of today's america
 
Hydrogen Progress, Priorities and Next Steps (Sept. 15)
Hydrogen Progress, Priorities and Next Steps (Sept. 15)Hydrogen Progress, Priorities and Next Steps (Sept. 15)
Hydrogen Progress, Priorities and Next Steps (Sept. 15)
 
Gamification in Social Media
Gamification in Social MediaGamification in Social Media
Gamification in Social Media
 
Blog Bean Recipes
Blog Bean RecipesBlog Bean Recipes
Blog Bean Recipes
 
BlueTooth Marketing Device BT-Pusher StandAlone User Guide
BlueTooth Marketing Device BT-Pusher StandAlone User GuideBlueTooth Marketing Device BT-Pusher StandAlone User Guide
BlueTooth Marketing Device BT-Pusher StandAlone User Guide
 
9 lives of leadership
9 lives of leadership9 lives of leadership
9 lives of leadership
 
time_management
time_managementtime_management
time_management
 
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query Processing
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query ProcessingBitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query Processing
Bitmap Indexes for Relational XML Twig Query Processing
 

Ähnlich wie Teaching Styles Technology Products

ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptx
ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptxED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptx
ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptxErikaHannahArzadon
 
Technology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special EducationTechnology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special Educationguesta429eb
 
Technology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special EducationTechnology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special Educationguesta429eb
 
The importance of technology in education
The importance of technology in education The importance of technology in education
The importance of technology in education Eliza Batomalaque
 
Technology and education
Technology and educationTechnology and education
Technology and educationluisinter
 
Technology and education
Technology and educationTechnology and education
Technology and educationiridabualli
 
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptx
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptxLec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptx
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptxJeramAbon
 
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapter
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapterEngel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapter
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapterReinhold Steinbeck
 
Technology use in spec.ed.
Technology use in spec.ed.Technology use in spec.ed.
Technology use in spec.ed.Jeff Caber
 
Scope of Integration Technology Enabled Learning In Academic Programme
Scope of Integration Technology  Enabled Learning In Academic ProgrammeScope of Integration Technology  Enabled Learning In Academic Programme
Scope of Integration Technology Enabled Learning In Academic Programmefaizan faizan
 
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptx
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptxEIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptx
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptxKaylahHall2
 
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement School
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement SchoolPedagogy Logistics Mangement School
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement Schoolrafiqul1969
 
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional Technology
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional TechnologyNeeds, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional Technology
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional TechnologyTasneem Ahmad
 
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...William Kritsonis
 
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajo
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajoMy portfolio in educational technologyangelbajo
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajoangelpagador
 
Smart Class.docx
Smart Class.docxSmart Class.docx
Smart Class.docxshylaja19
 

Ähnlich wie Teaching Styles Technology Products (20)

Educational technology
Educational technology Educational technology
Educational technology
 
Gns102
Gns102Gns102
Gns102
 
Assignment
AssignmentAssignment
Assignment
 
ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptx
ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptxED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptx
ED - (1)Tech For Teaching 1.pptx
 
Technology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special EducationTechnology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special Education
 
Technology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special EducationTechnology Use in Special Education
Technology Use in Special Education
 
The importance of technology in education
The importance of technology in education The importance of technology in education
The importance of technology in education
 
Technology and education
Technology and educationTechnology and education
Technology and education
 
Technology and education
Technology and educationTechnology and education
Technology and education
 
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptx
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptxLec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptx
Lec 9 - Technological Literacy.pptx
 
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapter
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapterEngel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapter
Engel_Steinbeck_eLearning_chapter
 
Technology use in spec.ed.
Technology use in spec.ed.Technology use in spec.ed.
Technology use in spec.ed.
 
Scope of Integration Technology Enabled Learning In Academic Programme
Scope of Integration Technology  Enabled Learning In Academic ProgrammeScope of Integration Technology  Enabled Learning In Academic Programme
Scope of Integration Technology Enabled Learning In Academic Programme
 
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptx
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptxEIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptx
EIM504 - SLIDE SHARE.pptx
 
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement School
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement SchoolPedagogy Logistics Mangement School
Pedagogy Logistics Mangement School
 
Ict future education
Ict future educationIct future education
Ict future education
 
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional Technology
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional TechnologyNeeds, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional Technology
Needs, Importance & Effective Use Of Instructional Technology
 
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...
Chapter 11 - Use Instructional Materials and Audio-Visual Aids in the Element...
 
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajo
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajoMy portfolio in educational technologyangelbajo
My portfolio in educational technologyangelbajo
 
Smart Class.docx
Smart Class.docxSmart Class.docx
Smart Class.docx
 

Mehr von bretfordmarketing

The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environments
The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative EnvironmentsThe Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environments
The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environmentsbretfordmarketing
 
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology Carts
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology CartsThe Advantages Of Reusing Technology Carts
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology Cartsbretfordmarketing
 
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…bretfordmarketing
 

Mehr von bretfordmarketing (8)

The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environments
The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative EnvironmentsThe Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environments
The Role Of Furniture In Higher Education Collaborative Environments
 
FETC and TCEA 2010
FETC and TCEA 2010FETC and TCEA 2010
FETC and TCEA 2010
 
Companydirectory
CompanydirectoryCompanydirectory
Companydirectory
 
Quick Ship Program
Quick Ship ProgramQuick Ship Program
Quick Ship Program
 
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology Carts
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology CartsThe Advantages Of Reusing Technology Carts
The Advantages Of Reusing Technology Carts
 
MMQB Reports on Bretford
MMQB Reports on BretfordMMQB Reports on Bretford
MMQB Reports on Bretford
 
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…
Bretford Announces Greenguard Certification On Dozens Of F…
 
World of Bretford
World of BretfordWorld of Bretford
World of Bretford
 

Teaching Styles Technology Products

  • 1. WHITE PAPER: Teaching Styles, Equipment Challenges and Optimal Technology Support Furniture for Educational Environments Bretford Manufacturing, Inc. I. Overview Technology is revolutionizing the way we think, work and play. As the use of projectors, flat panels, laptops, document cameras and other electronic equipment in K-12 and higher education environments increases, the methods in which teachers teach and students learn is also evolving. The growing use of technology in schools has also created a fundamental need for supportive furniture to house, move, store and safeguard this expensive and precious equipment. The purpose of this white paper is to outline the most widely used teaching styles for both K-12 and higher education environments today, explain the positive influence of technology on teaching and learning, review the challenges involved with using technology in schools, then describe the different types of technology support furniture available and the role this furniture plays in caring for the equipment and ultimately enhancing the overall teaching/learning process. II. Teaching Styles Based on the book “Teaching with Style” by Anthony Grasha, professor of psychology at the University of Cincinnati, an understanding of teaching and learning styles can help faculty enhance teaching. Grasha breaks these styles into four key clusters: 1. The expert/formal authority cluster tends toward teacher-centered classrooms in which information is presented and students receive knowledge. 2. The personal model/expert/formal authority cluster is a teacher-centered approach that emphasizes modeling and demonstration. This approach encourages students to observe processes as well as content. 3. The facilitator/personal model/expert cluster is a student-centered model for the classroom. Teachers design activities, social interactions, or problem-solving situations that allow students to practice the processes for applying course content. 4. The delegator/facilitator/expert cluster places much of the learning burden on the students. Teachers provide complex tasks that require student initiative, and often group work, to complete. While the optimal teaching style varies depending on the educator, grade level, class size and curriculum, one point remains clear: all of these styles can be greatly enhanced with the addition of technology products. III. Technology Advantages More and more studies show that technology integration in the curriculum improves students' learning processes and outcomes. For example, teachers who recognize computers as problem-solving tools change the way they teach. Students are naturally more engaged in learning when using these powerful tools. According to the magazine Edutopia: What Works in Public Education, another reason for technology st integration is the necessity of today's students to have 21 Century skills. These skills include:
  • 2. Personal and social responsibility • Planning, critical thinking, reasoning, and creativity • Strong communication skills, both for interpersonal and presentation needs • Cross-cultural understanding • Visualizing and decision-making • Knowing how and when to use technology and choosing the most appropriate tool for the task There is a growing body of evidence that technology integration positively affects student achievement and academic performance. The Center for Applied Research in Educational Technology (CARET) found that, when used in collaborative learning methods and leadership that is aimed at improving the school through technology planning, technology impacts achievement in content area learning, promotes higher- order thinking and problem solving skills, and prepares students for the workforce. IV. Technology Challenges While the advantages of technology are evident, educators are faced with the responsibility of operating and caring for the equipment. At the same time, they must determine the best way to integrate the technology into the classroom. Some of the most common issues include: Mobility. Many schools can’t afford a projector and laptops in every room so the equipment must be shared and oftentimes moved from room-to-room or even building-to-building. Since there isn’t a lot of time between classes during the school day, those moving the equipment – sometimes an educator, but usually a facilities or AV manager – must bring it to its next location. If the technology arrives late, it can be disruptive and interfere with the lesson. Storage. Evenings, weekends, summer and holiday breaks. These are all times when the technology products are least likely to be in use. Opposite the challenge of getting the equipment from place to place, educators need an efficient and safe, secure place to put their electronics and accessories – wires, cables, batteries, etc. – when not in use. Safety. Keeping the equipment free from damage can be an issue, especially during transport. Flat panels, document cameras and laptops are fragile and, if damaged, can lead to a loss in productivity as well as expensive repair costs. Educators may experience a disconnect in the overall teaching/learning process if they are without the tools they normally use. More important is the safety of the people using the technology, especially children. Some of the equipment is heavy and made with breakable materials like glass, which can cause injury. Security. Particularly in a down economy, technology theft is on the rise. Schools, especially at the high school and higher education levels, must take extra precautions to ensure the valuable equipment they use every day is securely locked up and protected from theft. Ease of Use. Not only is it vital for the technology to be easy to use, but it must also be easy to access and reconfigure in support of the different teaching styles. If the technology isn’t set up properly or if it’s difficult to reach or use the accessories, the time spent learning will be impacted, causing everyone unnecessary frustration. V. Technology Support Furniture Based on the common teaching styles and the challenges associated with using technology in a school setting, the evidence clearly ties back to the need for specialized furniture to support the electronics equipment used for teaching and learning – and the ramifications of not having this type of furniture.
  • 3. Below are some of the fundamental technology and media furniture categories. These are the products that are most likely to be used with laptops, computers, projectors, flat panels and other professional electronic equipment in schools: Laptop and AV Carts. Laptop carts can store, secure and charge dozens of computers while safely transporting them. AV carts can include everything from freestanding flat panel carts to full-on technology carts that incorporate space for laptops, flat panels, projectors, document cameras and more. They are typically made from highly durable steel materials and include safety or keyed locks to keep the equipment inside when not in use. Many have UL certification, which means they have passed multiple weight and load tests ensuring the product is safe for children and adults. They tend to have multiple shelving units and/or 19" rack mounts inside to house all the electronics, cords and accessories needed. And most are on casters, which is especially ideal in schools where the technology must be shared. Tables. Training tables with power and data ports can be used for small group sessions or they can be pushed and ganged together for training, conference or other group activities. They can also be folded and stored when not in use. Some large conference tables are available with flip-up doors for access to power and data ports. These tables can be reconfigured, depending on the size and style of the room. Some tables are great space savers, allowing for a computer to be tucked and locked out of the way when they aren’t being used, which is perfect for computer labs, libraries and educational training rooms. Projection Screens. Portable screens for the floor and tabletop give educational trainers on-the-go presenting capability. At the same time, wall mounted remote-controlled screens are perfect for permanent installation in larger spaces, like lecture halls. Lecterns. From simple styles to complex units that provide space for video projection, lecterns are a necessity in presentation environments such as conference rooms, classrooms or lecture halls. Lectern styles range from mobile to traditional to tabletop, and use varies depending on the electronics equipment and the overall size and style of the room. Carrels. Carrels come in a variety of styles, including student access stations, study carrels, and technology carrels, and most have the ability to add power. They are primarily for applications like independent study and testing and can usually be found in libraries, study areas and some classrooms. Utility Trucks/Stands. Utility trucks can be used to move media and other small accessories like power cords, cables, headphones, etc. Most trucks are slim and sleek so they don’t take up a lot of space. And because they are on wheels, the can be easily navigated into small corners or stored in closets. VI. Conclusion Truth be told, technology is constantly improving. And technology advancements will inevitably continue to change the way teachers teach and students learn. But one fact is constant: as long as technology is used in K-12 and higher education facilities, there will continue to be a primary need for technology support furniture. Resources: • “Teaching with Style” by Anthony Grasha, professor of psychology at the University of Cincinnati • Edutopia: What Works in Public Education (www.edutopia.org) 11000 Seymour Avenue Franklin Park, Illinois 60131 USA Toll Free Phone 800-521-9614 Phone 847-678-2545 Toll Free Fax 800-343-1779 Fax 847-678-0852 www.bretford.com