Reflective Blog #2 (1) Research in Educational Technology

Lyublinskaya, I./Zhou, G (2008). Integrating graphing calculators

and probeware into science methods courses:

IMPACTS ON PRESERVICE ELEMENTARY TEACHERS'

CONFIDENCE AND PERSPECTIVES ON TECHNOLOGY

FOR LEARNING AND TEACHING Article, 27

(2), 163-182. Retrieved February 20, 2010

from EBSCO Host Academic Search Complete.

Authors Lyublinskaya, Professor at College of Staten Island, and Zhou, Professor at Unversity of Windsor, conducted a study survey; which included many teacher candidates perspectives in the use of graphing calculator technology. The authors demonstrate that the usage of graphic calculators has widely been used in math lessons, but it can be used for so much more. Graphic calculators can be used in science classes, collecting a variety of data which range from respiration rate to EKG's. The study proves that these calculators can increase students' understanding, but science teachers should be competent in technology to implement the usage of such modern technology. Many participants testimonies express that if they use more technology in their classrooms, they will be able to do more engaging lessons with their students, and help them learn more. The survey showed that several of the teacher candidates had only limited exposure to calculator technology. Some participants felt uncomfortable using calculators in conjunction with teaching at the end of this course. However, after the course, a majority of the candidates upheld an attitude that this technology was important to their future students. The conclusion of the study proves that the perspectives and attitudes teachers have depend on their comfort level using graphing calculators. The participants' confidence in using technology, is independent of their perspective. If they perceive technology to be useful to their students, they must be confident to use it. In this study Lyublinskaya and Zhou, demonstrate that when teachers are educated, and are offered opportunities to use technology skills, then it boost their confidence. Confidence along with opportunities to use calculator-based technology will encourage them to engage in other technology methods. The intention would be to change preservice teachers' attitudes towards the use of technology in their future classrooms. This change will enhance their students academic learning.