CECS 4100  Computers in the Classroom Course Information

Spring 2000 (Class Photo) 4100.001 Projects, 4100.002 Projects
Fall 1999 (Class Photos) 4100.001 Projects 4100.002 Projects
Spring  1999    (Class Photos) 4100.001 Projects 4100.002 Projects
Fall  1998        (Class Photos) 4100.002 Projects 4100.003 Projects

This survey course will introduce experienced educators to the extensive field of educational technology. Topics covered in this course will be areas that impact or have the potential to impact educators working in the classroom environment. Special emphasis will be placed on constructing relevant and appropriate instructional environments.

The objectives for this course include the opportunity for students to analyze computer uses in education including simple applications programming in BASIC and LOGO (MicroWorlds).  In addition students should gain knowledge in the selection of educational software, feel comfortable modeling an educational presentation system, understand the integration of technology into the classroom and the use of other electronic sources for educational classroom resources.

• How are Computers used in the Classroom?
• Computer Applications in the Classroom
• Technology Integration
• Information Provider vs. Information Facilitator: The changing role of the educator
• Computer Ethics and Equity
• Educational Software: How should we evaluate it?
• Telecommunications and the Internet in the Classroom
• Searching for Educational Resources
• Copyright Laws and Educational Technology
• Technology Applications (TA) Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)
• National Standards for Teacher Competencies
• National Standards for Student Competencies
• Technology plans, the E-rate and other funding for technology
• Introduction to BASIC programming
• MicroWorlds Project Builder

• Attendance and punctuality are professional behaviors expected of educators. Educational technology is not "doing computer projects"--it is much more. Hence, you need to be here for class discussions and learning activities. Although attendence will not be taken, in-class activities will be given at random and will count for a significant part of your grade. You will not be allowed to make them up.
• You are expected to conform to all policies of the University of North Texas and work within the honor code.

• REQUIREMENTS:

You are responsible for the chapter assignments even if they are not covered in lecture.
 
• Workload for CECS 4100: Like all college courses, expect to spend 2-3 hours outside of class for each hour spent in class. In other words, you should expect to spend 6-9 hours each week outside of class completing readings, assignments, and hands-on computer time in addition to the 3 hours you are in class.

 
• There will be 3 exams, 5 assignments and several in-class exercises.

I will drop your lowest exam grade.  The in-class exercises are to be turned in on the day they are assigned or no credit will be given.
These requirements will be weighted as follows:

Exams                           40%
Article review                 5%
Software evaluation        5%
Thematic resources         5%
Integrated lesson plan    10%
LOGO programming     15%
In class exercises           15%
Class Participation           5%

Late assignments will receive a maximum grade of 75%.  Late assignments are those that are turned in after the beginning of class on the day in which they are due.
 

• GRADES

Grades will be calculated by the following scale:
 A = 90% or more
 B = 80 to 89.4%
 C = 70 to 79.4%
 D = 60 to 69.4%
 F = Below 60%

Textbook: Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching (2nd Ed.), by M. D. Roblyer, J. Edwards, & M. A. Havriluk, Prentice Hall.
Textbook: Learning MicroWorlds Pro by Tom Lough (Available at the copy center at Kendall Hall)
2-3 high-density, double-sided computer disks - bring at least one with you every week

Optional: MicroWorlds Pro: Tips and Tricks by Gary Stager (Available at the copy center at Kendall Hall)

EEO/ADA:  The University of North Texas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability or disabled veteran status in its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment policies.  Please see me outside of class to make any arrangements involving special accommodations.

Cheating:  Plagiarism and cheating are serious offenses which may be punished by any of the following:
 1. failure on the exam, project or paper
 2. failure in the course, or
 3. expulsion from the University of North Texas
 

For more information on EEO/ADA or academic dishonesty, please refer to your current Undergraduate Catalog.