Computer Integration by Vocational Teacher Educators

Vocational educators today face the challenge of utilizing and integrating computers and related technologies into their instruction in a manner that enhances student learning and achievement. Modeling appropriate uses of these resources by teacher educators in the preservice classroom can help equip future vocational teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills to use these tools effectively in their classrooms. A nationwide survey of vocational teacher educators from all major program areas revealed that the traditional computer tools, especially word processing, are receiving regular use in the preservice classroom. On the other hand, newer technologies such as authoring software and multimedia applications, are not yet integrated into the preservice curriculum on a regular basis. Vocational teacher educators are challenged to explore these new technologies, develop appropriate uses within their specific discipline, and share these new tools with the tomorrow's vocational educators.