The problem of integrating technology into teaching and learning process has
become a perennial one. Common excuses for the limited use of technology to support
instruction include shortage of computers, lack of computer skill and computer
intimidation. While these could affect the success of technology integration, it should
be acknowledged that the degree of success teachers have in using technology for
instruction could depend in part on their ability to explore the relationship between
pedagogy and technology. The article shows that technology integration is narrowly
perceived and that such a perception might hinder teachers’ understanding of the scope
of technology in education. Technology integration should be considered along with
issues involved in teaching and learning. Such issues include developing learning
objectives, selecting methods of instruction, feedback, and evaluation and assessment
strategies including follow-up activities. Technology used for teaching and learning
should be considered an integral part of instruction and not as an object exclusive to
itself. Viewing technology integration from a wide perspective will provide teachers
with the necessary foundation to implement technology into the classroom more
successfully.
The article includes a description of the foundation of multicultural education and a delineation of the concept and its processes. It will also include a depiction of multicultural instructional strategies, and the transformations academic institutions must undergo to adopt the multicultural philosophy. Finally, the article will include a discussion on how technology can be integrated into multicultural education to assist educators.
Constructivists believe that knowledge can emerge as learners construct meaning from information they receive and from their participation in the learning activities. As a result, learners gain knowledge from their interaction with the learning environment and from interacting among themselves. Learners construct meaning as they engage in critical reflection and evaluation of learning materials in an effort to discover patterns or new dimensions of the emerging information. This implies that learners have the opportunity to develop the skill to absorb the information before them in a way that connects the previously acquired knowledge and the newly discovered information. Constructivist advocates support learning that focuses on the analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of the learning materials and the related information as a means of constructing new knowledge.
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