EDT 630 Course Content

I would like to address the issue regarding the course content of EDT 630 since a few students expressed their disappointments with the course in their blogs. They think the course should teach them technologies such as MS Office and cutting edge technologies. It is not unreasonable for students to have such expectation when they registered for the course. As the course instructor and the EDT program coordinator, I would like to share with you some background information so you have a broader perspective regarding EDT 630.

The EDT program offers three graduate-level IT courses – EDT 610, EDT 620, and EDT 630.

EDT 610 covers hands-on experience and integration. We teach various computer applications and contexts where a piece of technology can be applied to enhance student learning. We emphasize aligning technology integration with school curriculum. You should be able to view some technology projects created by EDT 610 students posted as samples in this course.

EDT 620 covers advanced technology skills. Students explore various cutting-edge technologies: podcasting, video conferencing, video editing, ITune, YouTube, Internet phone, virtual reality such as Second Life, and advanced computer applications such as computer animation and Adobe Photoshop.

EDT 630 focuses on mindful and reflective technology integration, i.e., integration is explored on a much deeper level. To put it simply, any use of a piece of technology needs to be justified. We use technology not because technology is there but because it allows us do things better. Learning theories are the foundation for instructional design and are an essential component in the course. A piece of technology is inherently designed to either enhance or hinder a particular teaching approach. For example, games are designed to support a behaviorist teaching approach. Electronic tutorials are to support a cognitivist teaching approach. Open-up applications such as MS office can be used to support constructivist and social-constructivist teaching approaches. Although technologies are designed with inherent uses, teachers can mold most technologies into their particular teaching approach through careful reflection. Therefore, it is essential for teachers to have a thorough understanding of various teaching approaches. Students should come to EDT 630 with adequate technology competency, as the course requires.

I have decided to offer EDT 630 as an online course because I consider EDT 630 best suited for this delivery platform. The nature of the course utilizes the strengths of the online delivery method. However, it is up to the program to decide which EDT course to be required for their students. Some programs have chosen EDT 610 and some programs have decided on EDT 630.

All the EDT courses are designed in alignment with Alabama Quality Teaching Standards and approved by the State Department of Education.

I am aware of the need for some students to learn technologies. I have decided to offer face-to-face technology sessions in the hope to fill up the gap. I know some students in this course have high technology competence and have been using technologies in various contexts. A few students have taken EDT 610, and even EDT 620. Therefore, I have made face-to-face technology sessions an optional. You should decide whether you need to come to the sessions. If you are interested in a particular piece of technology, you can let me know so that I can cover it in the technology sessions.

I hope I have clarified this issue regarding the course content of EDT 630. I have been pondering on how the EDT program can best serve our students. One thought occurs to me that it might be best for the program to allow students options to take a technology course, be it EDT 610, EDT 620, or EDT 630. It will definitely make my job easier. However, it is the decision of your program.