·        Gain exposure to uses of and be able to evaluate software for educational application.

TEACHING METHODS: This course will be taught in a computer lab with hands on activities. The class will require participation from students in learning basic skills in the four application programs using Microsoft Office—word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation tools.  This class is a beginning class that assumes that students need to learn the basics of operating a computer and the applications that are the foundation tools of technology use in the classroom. 

GRADING POLICY:            There will be a final exam that counts 25 % and demonstrates student’s skills learned with basic computer applications.  A research paper (case study) on a topic of the student’s choice which counts 20%.  Two reports on articles dealing with instructional technology in education for 10%. Four  projects that demonstrate your ability to use the applications for 20%.   Finally, a lesson plan and classroom presentation that is worth 25%.

Guidelines for Article Review:

1.         Select two articles relating to computer-based instructional technologies.  The topics can relate to any subject of interest to you concerning technology in education.

2.         A copy of the original article or a reference to the website address should be submitted with each review.

3.         Each review of an article will be one page word processed, single spaced with bibliographical information included at the end of the review.

4.         The one page will include a concise summary of the article (author's purpose, main points, etc.) and critique (your evaluation, comparisons, etc.).  The critique should relate to your job experience, general experience, and knowledge gained from other related readings.

5.         Articles for review should be dated 1998 or later.

Guidelines for Assignments dealing with each basic application

1. There are four applications that will be studied and each one requires the demonstration of competence by the completion of a project using that application
2. The application projects are
1. Word processing—a newsletter
2. Presentations—a slide show
3. Spreadsheets—a demonstration spreadsheet dealing with a budget
4. Databases—a demonstration database of something you which to inventory or track
3. Each project must be turned in by the final weekend (Friday). These projects are very important as they are the practice activities that enable you to really learn the application under study.

Guidelines for Research Paper/Case Study

1.         Identify an educational environment or topic related to instructional technology appropriate for a review.  The topic for study can relate to any concept that you wish to study related to technology in your particular job.

2.         The length of the paper will depend on the depth of your study but will be double spaced with an introduction, purpose, summary, and bibliography.

3.         Research must be written according to the APA Publication Manual.

4.         Each study will include a final section summarizing knowledge gained.

Guidelines for Lesson Plan and Presentation.

1.         Identify a topic for instruction which incorporates instructional technology in the lesson format.

2.         Plan and design the lesson including: lesson summary, objectives (SOL) or competencies, expected student outcomes, vocabulary, materials needed, prerequisite skills, procedure, and evaluation.

3.         Present the lesson to the class and provide a written copy of the lesson plan upon completion of the oral presentation.

 REQUIRED TEXT: None.  Web site address will be supplied where all handouts and notes will be posted.

CLASS SCHEDULE: 

Date	Topic	Assignment
Class 1	Windows/ E-mail	Establish an e-mail account and E-mail the instructor giving her the address and a self-assessment of your computer skills
Class 2	Basic Word Processing/Desktop Publishing	Create a newsletter that is related to you current job or discuss the components of your dream job. Publicize what you do or wish to do in the future
Class3	Presentations	Create a slide show that is about you. The show should showcase your talents. Include a title slide, a graphic, a digitized picture, and a sound in your presentation.
Class 4	Spreadsheets	Create a spreadsheet concerning your budget requests for technology and technology related materials for your job.
Class 5	Databases	Create a database to display some set of information you use in your current job.
Class 6	Final Project presentations Final Exam (afternoon)*

*Schedule of Presenters to be determined.

RECOMMENDED READING:            Current articles from periodicals dealing with instructional technology. 

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT:            Any student whose disabilities fall within ADA must inform the instructor at the beginning of the term of any special needs or equipment necessary to accomplish the requirements for this course.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES:            Students who have or may be dealing with a disability or learning difficulty should speak with the instructor or contact the Office of Student Services at 451-8202.