485-200 Education 2C Computers in Primary C'Room

Credit Points

HECS Band

Coordinator

Prerequisites

476-104 Education 1: Children Schools & Society.

Semester

Contact

Subject Description

This subject will develop an understanding of how current computer-based technology can be used to enhance teaching and learning and support curriculum goals in the primary classroom. Students undertaking this subject will develop an ability to: use examples of software genres and specific packages; apply sound strategies for evaluating educational software; use the Internet for research and communication in an informed manner; demonstrate a good knowledge of how at least one primary school uses computers for curriculum purposes.

Topics investigated in this subject will include: computer ethics; information literacy; critical evaluation of curriculum software; strategies for software evaluation in the context of teaching and learning styles and CSF learning outcomes; databases and spreadsheets for both curriculum and teacher administration purposes; computers and problem solving; a practical introduction to multimedia; computers for special needs; computers and the Technology CSF.

Assessment

Weekly tasks, plus assignments to a total of 4000 words.

Successful submission of 80% of weekly tasks is required to pass this subject.

Prescribed Texts

• Chambers D P & Dobbins M, Computers & the K-6 Classroom: Kids Can Do. CD-ROM, Department of Science & Mathematics Education, University of Melbourne 1999.
• Sharpe V, Computer Education for Teachers (3rd ed). Boston: McGraw-Hill College 1999.