How to Teach History With Computers

As the number of technologically proficient students grows, there is an increasing need for history teachers to go beyond traditional textbook instruction. Using a computer with Internet access as a teaching device not only opens up new teaching methods and resources but also creates an interactive learning experience that can bring the subject to life. Furthermore, adapting to this digital form of teaching does not require a complete overhaul for teachers but can be easily assimilated into existing lesson plans.

Instructions
1. Change the delivery of a lesson. Use the computer to turn your lesson notes into a digital PowerPoint presentation. You can customize each slide to include key information in bullet-point form and images of historical figures and places. You can even create a timeline to help students understand key events, turning points and causality. Print out the presentation and distribute copies to students as a revision aid.

2. Enhance student work. Instead of asking students to write a report or essay, ask them to produce an audio or movie file using the computer. Ideas include interviewing each other about what they have learned that week, recording their thoughts and feelings about a particular historical event or person and creating a historical newscast or holding a debate.

3. Read primary sources. Reading first-hand historical accounts is a vital part of learning about history. Using a computer with Internet access, teachers can easily locate primary sources and make them accessible for students. Whether it's a written account or photograph, the ability to locate new resources will bring history to life in any classroom.

4. Go on a virtual history field trip. Avoid the problems of financing and organizing a traditional field trip and use a computer with Internet access for a virtual adventure. Instead of simply showing students an image, teachers can transport their classes to hundreds of historical places and monuments across the world. As these virtual tours are often designed for educational use, many already include interactive games and activities to complement student learning.
References
• "Teaching History In The Digital Classroom; D. A. Cantu & W. Warren; 2003"
• Teaching History With Technology: Podcasting In An Out of the Classroom
• ERIC Digest: Teaching Social Studies With The Internet
Resources
• Teaching History With Technology: Powerpoint Resources
• Teaching History With Technology: Examples of Virtual Field Trips and Tours
• Questia: Designing A Virtual Field Trip