Egbert 5,6,7 Boss and Krauss 7,8

Egbert, J. (2007). Supporting learning with technology: essentials of classroom practice. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson.

Boss, S. & Krauss, J. (2007). Reinventing project-based learning. Eugene, OR: International Society for Technology in Education.


Supporting Student Production, Chapter 7 was interesting. The authors listed benefits of production which are teaching responsibility, planning and critical thinking, communication skills, cross-cultural understanding, decision making, and using and choosing appropriate technology (p. 185). She also gave the stages of production which are preproduction, production, and post production (p.186). The guidelines were presented as focusing on the process, using authentic audiences, teaching the tools, understanding the tools, and scaffolding for all students (p. 200).

In Chapter 8, the discussion was supporting student eLearning. The author describes eLearning as enhancing with digital technologies, involves interaction between students and teacher that is mediated by technology, uses technology that is ongoing and consistent, learner-centered, uses a variety of resources (p. 209). The benefits from eLearning ate flexibility, responsibility, exposure, interaction, anonymity, and convenience (p.213). The explains that the teacher’s role is to build rapport with students, encourage eLearners, making sure students are spending time effectively, dividing classes into discussion groups, requiring individuals to make clear posts, making students know that the teacher is observing (215-217).

In chapter 5 of Boss and Krauss, the project management strategies were discussed. First of all, the sources must be gathered, then plan the project dates, organize teams, and plan assessments. Chapter 6 discusses the implementation strategies of the project. Teachers must explain the project with enthusiasm in order to excite the students with interest. Guidelines must be set and explained along with lessons on the technology to be used. Chapter 7 involves getting the project moving. When holding class discussions, the teacher should promote high-order thinking. Technology should be selected that will promote an effective lesson. Many thing can “go wrong” when a project is being produced. Teachers will need to be available to help with the students’ needs and also manage conflict.