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Home > Resources > Universal Design in College Instruction > Technology

What are the benefits and challenges of using technology to create an inclusive classroom?

In creating a Universally Designed curriculum, technology presents benefits and challenges to student learning. A content management system (Blackboard) is an excellent place to post documents and generate discussions that students can access at a comfortable self-directed pace. However, migrating content and participation to the online format can also create challenges for student access. You need to be sure that students have the proper software in place and are able to learn new applications in a timely manner.

What are the most effective ways for teachers to incorporate instructional technology in their courses?

Examples:

• Provide materials in electronic and accessible formats before class through the Blackboard course management system.
• Foster ongoing discussion using online discussion forums such as Blackboard's Discussion Board, blogs, and social media sites.
• Use Blackboard as a forum for group class work.
• Create a strong peer teaching and learning community within large lecture classes by using clickers.
• Use clickers during class to determine comprehension of key concepts.
• Develop short video and audio productions to explain and expand upon content, to provide alternative formats for assignment instructions, and for other content to benefit students with a variety of learning styles.
• Show a wide variety of visualizations to enhance complex content areas, such as using PowerPoint and classroom technology efficiently and creatively.
• Use PowerPoint as a promoting discussion tool.

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Selected Teaching Effectiveness Program Resources for Inclusive use of Technology

(NOTE: The below links will open in a new browser tab or window)

Teaching with Technology: provides an introduction to information on using technology in education.

Vital Considerations: links to resources that address the key considerations in using technology in the classroom and/or in the online environment.

Using Technology: addresses the question of "How can I use technology to ease my workload?"

Tools of Engagement: links to resources to assist instructors working with online discussions, email communication, and videoconferencing.

Networking with Others Teaching with Technology: offers educational resources to support instructors using technology in the classroom and online.