Technology in History Class

Increased Access to Primary Sources Develops Critical Thinking Skills

Teachers and Technology

• “Proficient technology-oriented teachers must learn to combine directed instruction and constructivist approaches and to select technology resources and integration methods that are best suited to their specific needs” (Roblyer & Doering, 2010, p. 43).

Engaging History Students

• Instead of merely facts, learning history should involve “building historical knowledge through the use of primary sources, conducting historical inquiry, and encouraging students to think historically (Swan & Locascio, 2008, p. 176).

Primary Sources on the Internet

• Primary sources are one way to analyze and learn about history.

• Universities, libraries, and other organizations have begun to publish collections of primary sources online.

• The internet can provide access to primary sources not normally available to students.

Technology Enhanced Instruction

• Historical narrative in textbooks can be enhanced by the addition of primary sources to the curriculum.

• “Using primary sources does not automatically translate into historical thinking” (Swan & Locascio, 2008, p. 176).

• Students are encouraged to use the primary sources to develop context and answer questions about the time period and events.

• Primary sources must be questioned and evaluated to encourage historical thinking.

Interactive Evaluations

• Students can be directed to use various presentation software programs to present the knowledge gained from the analysis of primary sources.

• The creation of web pages to highlight the primary sources and information they have provided can enhance student understanding and encourage interest in the material.

Conclusion

• Technology can be very beneficial in a history classroom if used to promote historical thinking.

• Technology can increase student interest and self directed research.

References

• Swan, K. & Locascio, D. (2008). Evaluating alignment of technology and primary source use within a history classroom. Contemporary Issues in Technology and Teacher Education, 8(2), 175-186. Retrieved from www.citejournal.org

• Roblyer, M. D. & Doering, A. H. (2010). Integrating educational technology into teaching. Boston, MA: Pearson.