Type I & Type II Technologies

Although both application types are related to the use of technology in the classroom the differences between them are extremely important; especially when deciding which to use for a certain lecture or lesson plan. Type I technologies are those that just help improve traditional teaching methods and are more complimentary in nature. Type II technologies are those which introduce and instruct new ways of teaching, as well as new ways of learning. It is by probably best defined as being innovative in comparison to Type I.

Because the definitions of each type are somewhat broad, listed below are three examples that will better help define the two uses.

Examples of Type I:

1. Using a power point presentation to compliment lecture material.

2. The use of a computer to help plan lessons more efficiently.

3. The use of a slide show to exemplify the lesson.

Examples of Type II:

1. Introducing and instructing students with new types of technology, including blogs, e-books, or Google Earth.
2. Engaging students hands-on in computer-based activities (not including Oregon Trail).
3. Allowing students to take modern commodities, such as an iPod or Pocket PC, and use them as a tool on a school project.

**Remember, the main difference between Type I & II is that type I is traditional and student-passive, while type II is more aggressive and hands-on in its student engagement.