Integrating technology into a grade five resource-based weather unit

Abstract

It is the responsibility of educators to prepare students for success in today's society. This success requires more than enabling students to follow direct instruction and perform rote tasks. It requires confidence, flexibility, good communication and problem solving skills as well as technological competencies. Individuals must be equipped with necessary skills to engage in lifelong learning. -- A review of literature in this project indicates that when technology is integrated into the school's curriculum, it can positively influence the teaching and learning process. It provides students with the opportunity to develop lifelong skills required for success in the world outside the classroom. Appropriate integration requires a change in the school's curriculum. Teachers are willing to make this change, however, they need more than just the technology guidelines provided by the Department of Education. -- In addressing this need, this project was developed to integrate technology into a resource-based weather unit. Resource-based learning allows students to use many resources so they can actively construct their own knowledge. Integrating Technology into a Resource-based Weather Unit is an example of how technology can be effectively integrated into the grade five curriculum. In this unit, resources and activities are carefully selected and where possible reflect a constructivist model of teaching and learning. -- This project contains four chapters: Chapter I identifies the background and rationale for the project; Chapter II provides a review of literature as it relates to the project; Chapter HI discusses the implementation of the project; and Chapter IV contains the actual project, including a unit planning guide. This guide includes the objectives and skills to be achieved, centre cards and evaluation sheets, as well as student workbooks. The first three chapters provide the basis for the fourth chapter. Together, all four chapters were written to fulfill the requirements for the degree of Master of Education.