The ISTE Classroom Observation Tool

Citation: Holzendorf, D. (2010, Octoboer 1). [Technology in Education]. Retrieved from http://www.edarticle.com/article.php?id=1071

Summary:

The short article by David Holzendorf "Technology in the Classroom," brings up an interesting component to our discussion on technology in education. We've been talking a lot about things to keep in mind when utilizing technology in the classroom and about how too much of a good thing can overload learning. It really is up to the teacher to balance technology instruction and manage students' access and interaction with these types of tools. 

The article discusses The ISTE Classroom Observation Tool, an observation protocol to help teachers better implement and  use technology in the classroom. It's a free tool to use and teachers and administrators can use it to document the type of technology education going on in the classroom.

According to Holzendorf, the ICOT can be used to "promote a dynamic, digital-age learning culture," to "document and retain the effective use of technology in the classroom," and to "better prepare and plan professional development for teachers."

Response:

While I do see a need for school's to evaluate their use of technology in the classroom, I am wary of using observation protocols in any sort of high-stakes way. I think the ICOT's lies in being able to identify areas of improvement and implement staff training and development along those lines. It definitely streamlines the process of integrating technology in schools and sets guidelines for how districts should use technology in the classroom. 

It really is not enough to put some laptops or iPads in a classroom, teachers need to be provided with ideas and training to help them utilize the technology to its full potential. The ICOT is just one tool districts can use to document and evaluate the effectiveness of technology in education.