Mathematical Modeling

What is a microworld?
A microworld is a term coined at the MIT Media Lab Learning and Common Sense Group.  The lab defined a microworld as, literally, a tiny world inside which a student can explore alternatives, test hypotheses, and discover facts that are true about the world.  It differs from a simulation in that the student is encouraged to think about it as a "real" world, and not simply as a simulation of another world.


Information obtained from, Using Technology in the Classroom by Gary G. Bitter and Jane M. Legacy

Games and Virtual Environments

How can teachers use games with their students?

Gaming in the classrom will continue to grow and will become an intregal part of everyday classroom tools.  Teachers can use educational games such as:

• repetitive drill and practice
• simulation
• tutorials
• content instruction

Educational games involve:

• solving equations
• scoring points
• solving mysteries
• guessing words
• enduring iterations
• solving puzzles
• handling sophisticated problem solving situations with rules, commpetitions, adventures, and fantasy situations.

Emerging and Assistive Technologies and the Future

What will the future student computer look like?

• The future student's personal computer will be a palmtop or tablet device with wireless Internet access, software programs, input devices, and many mathematical capabilities.  The student palmtop will have a calculator, graphing capabilities, productivity tools for word processing and spreadsheets, geometry construction tools, simulations, algebra systems, and intelligent tutor capabilities.  The computer will start instantly.  It also will be able to adapt to the user's interests and abilities and may even talk to him or her.  The wireless device will have a touch screen option like a magic slate, allowing students to input or write without a keyboard.  Battery life will be weeks.

Technology Integration in the Content Area

How can teachers use technology in the content areas?

Teachers of all content areas can foster a positive attitude in their students toward technology in education by designing instruction that integrates technology as a tool for learning rather than relying on technology as a delivery mechanism.  Integration is the key.  Technology enriched lessons engage students and allow students the opportunity to participate in the learning process.

Selecting and Integrating World Wide Web Resources, Including Designing Online Instruction

What constitutes a quality online educational resource?
Richman proposed the "Ten C's" to provide criteria to consider in evaluating Internet resources.  They include:

• Content
• Credibility
• Critical Thinking
• Copyright
• Citation
• Continuity
• Censorship
• Connectivity
• Comparability
• Context

Teachers should also review websites for the following to ensure they are appropriate for students:

• Documentation and Credibility
• Content
• Audience Appeal and Suitability
• Ease of Use, Navigation, and Accessibility
• User Interface and Design

Information obtained from Using Technology in the Classroom by Gary G. Bitter and Jane M. Legacy

Planning and Developing Technology-Rich Instruction

In what ways can technology integration be planned for a lesson?
Discussion of the limitless classroom technology applications can be facilitated by describing them according to four types.

*Technology as business resource.
*Technology as subject. Technology is the subject when the software or hardware itself is the focus of learning.
*Technology as content delivery. Technology can comprise the majority of the lesson.
*Technology as lesson support.

Information provided from Using Technology in the Classroom by Gary G. Bitter and Jane M. Legacy

Learning and Teaching with Technology