Value Added

As technology is made more and more accessible it becomes a very beneficial addition to the educational environment. In looking at Dexter's eTips, much of the discussion shows how technology can be implemented in schools so as to add to the curriculum and help the students to further their knowledge and understanding. According to Dexter, the addition of technology allows for teachers to achieve what would not normally be possible when confined to certain educational resources. Teacher must focus on what technology can do to for their students and helps them to better develop the goals and outcomes of the class. In order for teachers to know what technology is appropriate for the unit or lesson they must know what outcomes they wish to achieve. The added value of technology also adds to the learning process of the students. They have greater access to information and ideas which then allows students to expand their knowledge of the world so as to prepare them to be active citizens in society.

I think Dexter's eTips as well as technology in the classroom fit into the standards of the UDL. It certainly offers a means of engagement for the students because they have the ability to explore what interests them and use technology that they have access to in their daily lives. It gives them an incentive to complete work when they are able to do something they enjoy. I think technology also allows the students better comprehend things because they can see things represented/presented in a new way. It expands beyond the confines of a textbook. Overall, I think technology is becoming a critical part of the modern day classroom and is helping students gain a better learning experience.