NTeQ: Designing an Integrated Lesson

NTeQ, or "iNtegrating Technology for inQuiry" is an instructional model used to design a lesson plan that integrates the use of technology in the classroom (Morrison & Lowther, 2010, p. 15).  This model consists of steps that teachers follow when designing a student-centered lesson in which computers are used to solve a problem, answer an open-ended question, or create a project.

Teachers must first get to know each individual student in their classroom in order to tailor the lesson to suite their unique needs, interests, abilities, and learning styles.  By using student input when designing a lesson, teachers can capitalize on the intense student interests to motivate them to participate in the activities.  When lessons are aligned with the specific learning styles of students, they are more likely to benefit from the activities.  Lessons that are authentic and meaningful encourage student engagement and help them acquire 21st century life skills.

In addition to considering the opinions of students when planning an integrated lesson, teachers must also follow the objectives listed in the standard course of study published by their particular state educational organization.

It may not be necessary to create a completely new lesson in order to incorporate the use of technology.  Modifications can be made to an existing lesson plan, in order to integrate the use of technology as a learning tool.

Computers are to be used as tools to enhance the learning process and achieve the objectives of a lesson, rather than simply as an alternative method of delivering the lesson.  During the process of designing an NTeQ lesson, teachers should keep in mind the relationship between the computer functions and the lesson objectives.  They should consider the different types of computer functions and decide which ones would work best to achieve the specific objectives of the lesson.  Teachers should test this relationship by performing the activities themselves prior to conducting the lesson in the classroom.

It is likely that almost any lesson plan can be modified to integrate technology by including the use of a computer.  However, Morrison and Lowther (2010) do not recommend using a computer in every lesson.  Rather, they suggest varying instructional methods to include alternative ways of gathering information, collecting and manipulating data, and solving problems.  Students will then be introduced to the wide range of ways that information  is available in the "real world."

References

Morrison, G.R. & Lowther, D.L. (2010).  Integrating computer technology
       into the classroom:  skills for the 21st century (4th ed.).  Boston:
       Pearson.