Philosophy:

Integrating Multimedia into the Elementary School Curriculum

Linda Ullah, M. Ed.

G.A.T.E. Teacher Edenvale School (1991-1999)

Technology Learning Coordinator, Blossom Valley Learning Consortium (1995-2000)

Foothill College Center for Innovation Teacher in Residence (2000-2002)

• Teachers are in charge providing equal access to a rich, meaning centered thematically planned / integrated core curriculum.
• Technology is one of many tools available to teachers and students.
• Curriculum drives the use of technology.
• All teachers and students must learn to use technology in order for our students to successfully compete for jobs in the next century.
• Students are successful learners when the learning has meaning to them.
• Students are successful learners when they create real products while they learn.
• Students have many "intelligences" (Howard Gardner's Seven Intelligences). As educators, we must provide learning experiences for all of these ".
• Elementary school students can conduct real, first hand research and create meaningful real products utilizing available technology in the same way adults use technology in their jobs (Internet, CD-Rom, fax, phone, eMail, video, multimedia).
• We must be careful not to create a technological underclass.
• Technology is best learned when there is a real need to learn. Students and teachers learn best when they need to create a product.
• Learning is a process of discovery. We need to allow students time to explore and discover.
• Students are teachers, too.
• When students work in interest groups, age difference is not a barrier, but an asset to learning
• Multi age cooperative groups are very effective.
• Technology provides a natural fit with the curriculum. It is highly motivational. It engages higher level thinking skills (Bloom's Taxonomy), organizational skills, and involves reading, writing, math, science, social studies, art and music.