Tips for using different types of media and technology are discussed below. However, before moving
on to specific methods, several general principles related to your use of media and technology
should be kept in mind:
• Choose the media that best suits your instructional objectives. Decide what you want to
accomplish and then employ the tools that are most likely to help you achieve results. Do not
let the media that is available to you determine how or what you will teach.
• If possible, use a variety of tools. PowerPoint, mpeg/mov files, internet, and, yes, the chalkboard
not only keeps students’ interest but also responds to the needs of those who receive
information in different ways. Personal response systems (aka, “clickers”) also continue to make
inroads into the classroom and are attractive as they create opportunities for a quantified form of
student response and immediate assessment of learning, by both student and teacher.
• Check out your media or technology before class starts to be sure it is working properly.
Nothing is more frustrating to you or the students than to find that your computer connection or
ppt file is not working.