Deb, what a great question . . . and what great responses! I would agree that technology can't do it by itself, that it takes engaging lessons with essential questions . . . and the opportunity to share with a larger audience than just the teacher or some CMS. Having said that, many times I've seen a digital device match up perfectly for a student who has had learning difficulties with more traditional tools. So there are times that the technology in and of itself can create remarkable results. On the other hand, a steady diet of filling in bubbles or selecting A,B, C or D on a digital worksheet for most students seems counter-productive to me. While there certainly is a place . . . and a need . . . for instructivism (direct instruction), the computer makes it easier for all of us to construct knowledge, and in doing so, incorporate important process skills to maximize our learning. Some related resources: Instructivism http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/Instructivism Constructivism http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/Constructivism Project-based Learning http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/Project+Based+Learning Metacognition http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/Meta+Cognition Khan Academy http://www.khanacademy.org/ Process Skills http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/Process+Skills Jim Burke 207-674-2006 Western Maine Learning - Online Home Office http://sites.google.com/site/westernmainelearning/Home Learning in America Resources Wiki http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/ On Mon, May 9, 2011 at 8:53 AM, Deborah White <[log in to unmask]> wrote: > Hi~ > > A high school teacher asked me this: > > > "How can technology improve student motivation, attitude, and interest in > learning?" > > > I am interested in comments and factual references. > > > What would you tell her? > > Thanks! > Deb White > Asa C. Adams School > Orono, Me > -- 207-674-2006 Western Maine Learning - Online Home Office http://sites.google.com/site/westernmainelearning/Home Learning in America Resources Wiki http://learninginamerica.wikispaces.com/