Abstract:

Currently, we are participating in the discovery and use of different multimedia resources, digital platforms, and technological devices that are making inroads into the educational system. This study deals with the use of new multimedia technologies, specifically developed in a Secondary School of First Cycle in Sicily in the province of Agrigento.

The purpose of this communication is to present partial results of a broader research project on the use of ICT in teaching art and design in the context of secondary education in Sicily with the intention to explore the impact on the methodology multimedia teaching resources and technological devices. We intend to develop an innovative methodology for teaching art and image based on the use of interactive whiteboard and tablets. We consider relevant the use of multimedia interactive whiteboard because it promotes student interaction with touch curriculum content or with a stylus. In this research from the constant daily use of the interactive whiteboard, we try to promote and strengthen new and different ways of teaching and communication. We assume that the tablet in the classroom stimulates student participation, but at the same time transforms the role of the teacher. In addition, we aim to develop digital teaching strategies and action research tools in the classroom.

This paper develops from the paradigm of qualitative research literature search that pays special attention to both digital tools and skills to teachers and learners. We highlight the fundamental role of schools, as well as national and European institutions in decision-making regarding the use of technology in the classroom. Following the studies of Stake, (1995) we opted for a case study working with a sample of 6 classrooms of the Comprehensive Agricento Institute (Sicily). Among the methods/research instruments highlight the diary, interviews, classroom observations and content analysis of the documentation center.

The results are provisional as it is an ongoing investigation. The different interventions carried out with the use of ICT in the center under study are analyzed and described. The use of technology in school is an opportunity for students who want to grow with methodological innovation. The arrival of tablets and new digital technologies in the classroom have changed and revolutionized the educational contexts of all school staff, also underlining the need for change in Italian schools. We are in the process of analyzing and interpreting the information, although some interviews and classroom observations still need to be done.

As for the conclusions we are in the development of research studies. The work is done we can infer that these technologies favor school integration of all students and help train teachers in acquiring new skills/abilities. In addition, these technologies foster and strengthen an inclusive education and social cohesion in the classroom context (INCLUD-ED Project)

Keywords:

ICT, the teaching of art and design, digital platforms, technological devices, secondary education.