An Inservice Project
Using The Florida GED Teachers' Handbook
 

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  The Fifth Connection:  Technology in the Classroom
“Behind the Scenes”
page 2

Action – Bringing Technology to the Classroom

Every GED classroom should be adequately stocked with materials and supplies that will meet the needs of the adult learner. This includes technology hardware and software. However, it also includes other types of technology as well.

Think about a science class. What type of technology might a high school science lab include? You can definitely use the Internet. There are lots of great hands-on science sites. However, an item that is often found in a science classroom is a microscope - an important piece of science technology.

Take a look at a student at Indian River Community College. She is using a small, inexpensive microscope to learn more about science. This video will provide you with an example of technology in action. One word of caution - if you are using a dial-up modem, expect that it will take a minute or so to download the video clip.

click here! Microscopes

Our adult students need to have access to all types of technology in order to compete in today's workplace and in higher education. Remember, a smart classroom is an interactive classroom where all types of technology are used to assist the teacher in delivering information.

Every GED classroom should be adequately stocked with materials and supplies that will meet the needs of the adult student.  This includes technology hardware and software.  Our adult students cannot be left behind if we want them to be successful in today’s workplace and in higher education.  Remember, a smart classroom is an interactive classroom where technology is used to assist the teacher in delivering information.

So, what do we know about using technology effectively in the classroom?  Smart classrooms are:

  • Created by hard working teachers
  • Instrumental in getting students excited about learning
  • Used for all learning needs and styles
  • Used to prepare students for the real world of work and higher education
Making a decision as to what computers and other technology to buy for the GED classroom can be overwhelming.  For those of us who have not had an opportunity to learn all about computer hardware and other peripherals, trying to buy a computer can put a real strain on our brainpower.  Before you buy a computer for your GED classroom, ask yourself:
  • What kind of computer should I buy?
  • How much memory do I need?
  • How do I get on the Internet?
  • Do I need a printer?  Should it be color?  Laser or ink-jet?
  • What do RAM, MB and Gigs stand for?
  • Do I need to know this information before I make my purchase?
  • How will I know if I have made the right decision?
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This program was developed by Dr. Lucy M. Guglielmino, Florida Atlantic University, through an Adult Education State Leadership Grant from the Florida Department of Education, Division of Community Colleges and Workforce Education.   Content Developed by Susan Pittman and Bonnie Vondracek. Web development by Dr. Debra L. Hargrove. Videography by Steve Foley, Foley Video Productions.

Disclaimer:  While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this web-based training component, it is not an official publication of the Florida Department of Education.