Ed422 Journal Entry #2 9/14/07

Journal #2 Ed422
Infusion or Integration
By Kimberley Ketterer

In this article Kimberley compares infusion and integration. She found many schools using these terms incorrectly, and interchangeably. Infusion means an introduction of a new element into something. She compares historical use to modern day use. Historically, teachers used pens and pencils for writing, overhead projectors, ditto machines, record players, movie projectors and hardcopy subscriptions to magazines. I can relate to the use of these methods. Not only have I used them, but almost daily, overhead projectors are still used in many of the classrooms I teach in. When compared to current technological teaching tools, these methods seem ancient, and on the verge of extinction. Currently, most teachers now use computers for writing, LCD projectors, document cameras, copy machines, MP3 and DVD players, and online subscriptions to articles. These advances in technology have changed the look of today’s classroom. We have access to so much more information at our fingertips.
Integration is the intermixing of people or items previously segregated. This can be seen in multi-media presentations, watching downloaded video clips, using a document camera to project a teacher demonstration, or listening to a lesson on an MP3 player. Basically, integration is using the technology as a tool for learning in the classroom.

1.Could I see myself using current technology as a teaching tool in my classroom?
Definitely yes. I already use the LCD player for showing films relating to a variety of topics, either taken from a website (Unitedstreaming), or from a DVD. The large screen makes viewing much more enjoyable than the old T.V. screens they used to have to watch movies on. It’s also a great tool for sharing Power Point presentations.

2.Do you find use of any historical items still of value?
Yes. There have been many great improvements, yet I think that some basic fundamental things still retain a value in today’s schools. I think children still need to learn to write using a pen and pencil. I see the art of cursive writing becoming a thing of the past. Many students nowadays don’t know how to write in cursive. I think handwriting is an important basic that should not be done away with. I also see the value of using an overhead projector. It makes it easy for a teacher to share with the class, anything she wants to write or demonstrate. Technology is great, and it has improved many teaching venues, however, I think that certain basic historical things still serve a purpose in today’s schools.