The Real Potential for Technology as a Catalyst for Change

• In Event: Perspectives on Technology Integration From Preservice, In-Service and Technology Specialist Teachers

Abstract

Schools and teachers today are faced with the challenge of making big shifts in their approaches to STEM teaching and learning--particularly, shifts toward transdisciplinary, student-centered, inquiry-based applications of STEM content that meet the growing demands of standards and learning criteria. This paper explores a promising systemic approach, developed by a University-based research center, for helping teachers make these shifts within the context of a technology integration initiative. University facilitators worked in partnership with teachers to design and implement authentic, transdisciplinary STEM projects. Data collected across two years of implementation show notable shifts in how teachers view technology integration and their STEM design work, indicating a promising foundation for positioning teachers as designers of forward-thinking, rigorous, hands-on learning experiences for students.

Authors

• Ellen B. Meier, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Caron M. Mineo, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Jessica Yusaitis-Pike, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Steven Azeka, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Rocio Santos-Carrillo, Teachers College, Columbia University