The 5W/5E Concept for Integrating Technology into the Classroom

The aim of this Tech&Learning article by Wanda Walters is to show that the 5W’s and the 5E’s can be combined to create an instructional planning tool that allows teachers to easily and efficiently integrate technology into any instructional program. The strategies presented are appropriate for all grade levels and content areas.

I have summarized that planning tool here:

WHAT ...
… are you teaching?

• Instructional goals
• Specific educational objectives

… technological resources are available?

• Templates and models
• Specific productivity software, ie, Word, Photoshop, MovieMaker
• Specific educational software, ie, Inspiration, Google Earth
• Classroom response system
• Interactive whiteboard
• Digital cameras
• Specific web sites, ie, Grammar Ninja, Museum Box, GeoGebra

… technological resources would you like to use?

WHO is being targeted to use the technology?

• Whole group
• Small groups
• Individuals
• Special needs students

WHERE will the technology be delivered?

• In the classroom
• . Teacher presentation
• . Student activity
• Outside of the classroom
• . At home
• . On a field trip
• . On school campus
• . Computer lab

WHEN will the technology integration take place?

• Entire lesson or class period
• As a warm up or review activity
• What's the timeline?

WHY are you using this particular technology?

• to ENGAGE students in the topic
• to EXPLORE other aspects of the topic
• to EXPLAIN or define the concept
• to ELABORATE the idea and extend understanding
• to EVALUATE understanding of the concept

Read the article.