Vetting Technology and Web Sites

by David C. Martin, PhD

It is important that a curriculum developers or teachers test websites for the classroom. Web lessons help with course instruction. Students find technology engaging. The first and most important criterion for evaluating a website is determining the learning outcome of the materials. If the site does not meet its purpose, the lesson may not achieve its value. Assure the content is right for the student.

Teachers must know the content that the learner will be reviewing. Give proper follow-up and assessments as the unit or lessons progress. Test the learning outcomes and test questions. Do assessment items vary according to theories like Bloom’s Taxonomy? We should take care to make sure that the material achieves its intended use.

Space X Rocket

https://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/blooms-taxonomy/

Curriculum Implementors should decide if the websites they recommend in classroom exercises to avoid situations that are inappropriate or offensive to parents. It is the responsibility of the teacher to vet all resources used by students in the classroom.

I found the following items are useful when using web technology:

  1. Material must meet the specific educational purposes. Teachers should decide if the websites they recommend in classroom exercises to avoid situations that are inappropriate or offensive to parents. It is the responsibility of the teacher to vet all resources used by students in the classroom.

  2. Material may be date sensitive. Information that is not current can affect the learning experience and may lead to a disruptive outcome. Learners recognize out-of-date material. It may reduce credibility. Keep in mind historical video or other information can be useful to compare technical material.

  3. Opinions may be provocative. There needs to be a balance of cited facts and counter arguments for the information presented. Make sure the material is consistent for the school’s or organization’s core values.

  4. Scholastic Reviews–Awards are helpful. Teachers should be familiar with the evaluators or evaluation process. Take note that the awards and reviewers should have the respect in the teaching community.

  5. Keeping the stakeholder objectives in mind. The obligation for children’s education is the parent(s). Meet every stakeholder need. Do not be provocative for no purpose.

With over 20 years of experience testing and using software and technology, I have found a criterion is crucial for large purchases. The form gives a framework for selecting products. Add or subtract items as your team discusses the implementation. Each member of the team should contribute a form. Use good reliability and consistency evaluation from each team member.

Evaluation Form

Levy, L. A. (2016, January 27). Vetting New Technology for the Classroom. Retrieved from Pearson.com: https://www.pearsoned.com/vetting-new-technology-for-the-classroom/