Incorporating Internet technology in educational practice can offer numerous benefits. This kind of instructional technology can help teachers by providing creative ways to engage students with fun and interactive activities. The ability to use the Internet to review and take classes provides additional benefits to students who need extra time and practice in their studies.

Digital White Boards

Digital white boards (also known as SMART boards) are an educational tool made possible through the integration of Internet technology in schools. Lessons conducted using the white board are often more beneficial because they can add an interactive component to traditional instruction, thus improving transfer and retention of the presented material.

Wikis and Collaboration

Wikis--platforms that allow an easy creation and editing of websites by many different participants, through a very simple markup language--are a useful way to encourage collaboration, and can be used across various grade levels and subjects. Many teachers set up a wiki for their class, and encourage students to use that space to cooperate and work collaboratively on projects and assignments.

Video Tutorials

Teachers and students both benefit from the ability to post and view video tutorials online. Teachers can use these to supplement classroom instruction, or to give students yet another way to review the material. The ability to view video tutorials online at home is especially useful for students who learn best by watching the instructor rather than reading the material in a book.

Online Courses

The integration of technology at the higher education level has caused a widespread availability of online courses, which are especially useful for adult learners who are not able to attend courses in person at traditional campuses. A variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs are offered through the Internet, thus bringing higher education to a large group of learners who would not have otherwise been able to continue their studies.

Video Games for Learning

Online video games are frequently used as part of a diverse curriculum, across grade levels and subjects. Specifically designed educational games can help students learn material in a fun and engaging way, and provide an opportunity for additional review and retention.

Source:

Teaching and Learning on the Internet

Guiding Principles for Distance Teaching and Learning

The Digital Divide

More Information:

Instructional Technology Resources