TechTrends

Feedback is an effective instructional practice for improving achievement. The importance of feedback has been understood by teachers for many years, yet recent research has elevated its status. One characteristic of effective feedback is personalized comments, which assist students in understanding their performance. Most research analyzes the effects of written feedback. Some current studies have examined the effects of alternative delivery methods, such as audio. One new approach for creating and delivering feedback is through screen capture technology. A case study was conducted to examine the effects of this method on the academic performance of 36 undergraduate students in a teacher education course. Results showed that screen capture feedback is effective for guiding corrections on a writing assignment. Students also reported that feedback was useful for knowing what they were doing right or wrong and that they would prefer more feedback of this type.

As stated at the beginning of the article, Bill couldn’t and didn’t want to write. By using technology, Bill overcame his negative feelings and replaced them with personal confidence and pride in the writing process. This was a small victory in the dropout war. To improve this acute situation, more teachers need to experiment with the micro and at-risk students. They need to try new, dynamic educational software with these students. They need to experience the excitement of a student, like Bill, discovering new knowledge with a hightech tool. What is needed now and in the future is greater utilization of the microcomputer as an effective tool which can help alleviate the at-risk problem.

The STEM TIPS mobile-ready support platform gives institutions or school districts the ability to provide immediate and customized mentoring to teachers through multiple tiers of web-based support and resources. Using the results of a needs assessment, STEM TIPS was created and launched in partnership with 18 Florida school districts. Further results of a user survey from the pilot year of implementation reveal that this program served teacher needs from the initial assessment and enhanced teacher practice. The platform is now structured to provide instructional and support services for multiple partnering districts and institutions both nationally and internationally. Since this program offers induction support to distant and often isolated teachers in real time, it is a substantive model of a solution to the professional development of significant numbers of new teachers in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in middle and high schools.