instructional technology network
tri-county educational service center

Most of the time the term technology is used to describe things having to do with batteries or plugs - even on this blog. While this definition is true, it describes only a small subset of what technology actually encompasses.

A broader, more complete definition of technology should incorporate the types of developments that enable us to do things better or to do things we could not otherwise do, including other fields like medicine, genetics, construction, manufacturing, and transportation. This applies equally to the pencil and the keyboard, to a rock-and-stick hammer and advanced robotics.

The best of problem-solving and design process, two staples of technological literacy, is displayed in this video clip. It is a solution to a problem (need for clean water), working within significant constraints (power, maintenance, cost) , and using readily available - and renewable - resources (the extra energy kids have that everyone wishes they could bottle and sell).

How are we preparing our students to think about and solve problems like this one?

I realize that this YouTube clip is not Bess-Friendly, but it’s worth finding a place to watch.

Video link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uQu_Jppvzyk

[via How To Change the World]

A great collection of multimedia resources on the web is at Teachers’ Domain. Developed by PBS affiliate, WGBH, the collection includes a number of free videos, interactive modules, and articles. Age appropriate content is available for essentially all grade levels.

Free registration is required, but worth your time. The primary content areas include: Earth and Space Science, Engineering, Life Science, and Physical Science. A dozen or so Special Collections touch upon Civil Rights and Literacy (e.g., “Between the Lions Early Literacy”).

Good stuff. Good price.

[Side Note: Teachers' Domain also offers a handful of online courses. More information on these at PBS Teacherline]