Oct 25

• Increasing use of technology in classrooms seems inevetiable. Is it possible that this will impede more traditional approaches to teaching, and if so, what can be done to integrate the "best of both" methods of teaching?

• Do you think that students perfer taking courses from professors who are technologically advanced. In other words, professors who use power point versus a professor who is still just using the chalkboard.

• One of my most positive experiences with technology as it pertains to psych courses, was when one of my professors arranged a day with the librarian, who taught us how to use the large databases to find what we need. I still use the notes I took that day! What are some other ways, instructors can incorporate the use of technology to assist students in their quest for knowledge in psych?

• This chapter discussed several positive of technology, but what about the negatives?

• Since, as the chapter mentions, technology is becoming a much more important part of almost all fields of study, should teachers always try to include at least some form of technological component into their classes?

• The book mentions the idea of "online office hours." Is this a feasible idea or would it be less helpful than office hours in person?

• The book really didn't say much about classes that are held completely "online". While it is convenient, wouldn't you think that if a student takes too many classes online it would rob them of a real college experience?

• Mckeachie cites a study by Tom Russell called No
  Significant Difference, which states that technology
  does not significantly effect student learning
  outcomes. He doesn't cite any sources that say
  technology does help. Aside Power Point, is it really
  necessary to use any other technologies such as web
  based discussion boards or supplementary web pages?

• What would be a good guideline to follow for intro students' familiarity with technology? Since this is more of a commuter school, I would think some may need a little more help. Has this been an issue with students downloading notes or signing up for research?