TEACHERS' PLAYGROUND: ENHANCING TEACHER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY

The paper describes innovative uses of educational technology such as electronic response systems (clickers), real-time data collection and analysis software and hardware (Logger Pro), computer simulations, and tablet computers. Our goal, however, is not a mere description of these technologies and their applications. We outline big pedagogical ideas that should drive the use of these technologies in the classroom to make a significant impact on science or mathematics learning. Four case studies showcasing the use of these technologies in science classrooms are discussed and the theoretical background behind their use is outlined. We suggest that technology-enhanced pedagogy has a potential to impact profoundly students' and teachers' learning and motivation. We suggest that these technologies should get integrated into in-service and pre-service science and mathematics teachers' professional development.