ED+5364+Teaching+with+Technology+Week+2

Research consistently shows that teaching with technology positively affects learner self-esteem and does influence academic achievement. Provided there is regular interaction with technology, proper teacher training, positive attitudes toward technology and a close alignment to objectives, the learning process will improve. As technology-savvy teachers become facilitators of the students’ differentiated instruction, it becomes evident that the flexibility of the computer as a tool enables learners to receive individualized, customized knowledge and feedback. Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is an initiative based on architectural principles of accommodation, which calls for the creation of blueprints of differentiated instruction using computer technology available in the classroom. Modern educational initiatives such as No Child Left behind call for high achievement standards, yet, at the same time, demand individualization that caters to unique learning styles and needs. UDL drives the curriculum to adapt to the implementation of technology-rich modes of content presentation, student demonstration of acquired knowledge and assessment. Through data collection, it is possible to individualize objectives; especially for students, whose particular needs, such as learning disabilities, limited English proficiency, emotional problems, vision or hearing impairment etc., makes it imperative to accommodate.