Educational Computing

The area of emphasis in Educational Computing is designed to enhance technology skills and knowledge of technology integration for education professionals.

This program offers a hands-on and practical approach to meeting the teaching and learning needs of teachers and students in settings from PK-12 through higher education. Courses in the area of specialization include:

Application Software in the Classroom Curriculum Area

The course format includes examples of software applications, hands-on computer use and materials development, and discussion of issues related to technology in education. Participants use course information to design instructional materials and lessons that effectively integrate technology into the subject area(s) and within the grade level(s) of interest. Computer applications include spreadsheets, multimedia presentations, word processing,, databases and the Internet.

Computing and Instructional Design

This course is designed to equip teachers with the knowledge and skills for developing exemplary units of instruction that effectively integrate technology. As the emphasis on computers and computing in education increases, it is imperative that teachers are able to evaluate and use technology tools to enhance learning experiences while accomplishing desired learning outcomes. Participants in this course will follow the systematic design of instruction including conducting a needs assessment, developing materials and completing a formative evaluation.

Local Area Networks and Telecommunications

Local area networks are prevalent in schools and are required for use of some major software systems. School personnel must be knowledgeable in the management of such a system to optimize instructional use. Telecommunication activities also have increasing potential for instruction. Applications range from courses delivered via satellite to using remote databases to exchanging information via electronic bulletin boards, mail, chat, and other online media. In this course participants will explore basic concepts and terminology through reading, practice exercises, discussion, and research for the development of your own school network.

Software Evaluation and Selection

Selecting and purchasing educational software can represent a large investment both in teachers' time and in a school's budget. The software programs available within any one content area can vary greatly in number, quality, and cost. While locating reviews completed by others can be a useful starting point, it can be even more beneficial for teachers to develop effective strategies for evaluating and selecting products that support their specific instructional goals. In addition, developing skills for integrating software programs, whether locally or on the Web, into instruction in a variety of settings can enhance the successful integration of any new software program.

Authoring Systems and Multimedia

This course introduces a variety of authoring and multimedia applications. Concepts include capturing and editing digital audio and video, developing interactive instructional applications for the classroom, exploring presentation media, and creating Web applications. The course is hands-on and project oriented with an emphasis on developing instructional applications for classroom use.

Final Project in Educational Computing

This course provides participants with the opportunity to reinforce and enhance knowledge and skills acquired throughout the Educational Computing area of emphasis. Participants work with the instructor to select an appropriate project, develop a project proposal and timeline, complete project work and share results with other Ed Computing participants.

CIEC Elective

An approved elective related to technology completes the area of emphasis. Course topics may include:

• Issues in Educational Computing
• Online Course Development & Delivery
• Using the WWW for K12 Instruction
• Web Design for Educators

In addition courses from Information Systems (IS) or the Instructional Technology Library (ITL) program may be accepted.