The Most Powerful Tool in the Classroom - Huffington Post
For thousands of years the human race has relied on two sources for information in the classroom. One was the teacher and the other was the textbook. Times have changed. The Internet is now the most powerful tool in the classroom. The role of the teacher is not going away, it is simply changing. Teachers no longer need to be lecturing students but instead helping to guide them through it. Students are able to learn with the Internet but they still need our guidance as mentors, facilitators, and coaches.
When students can learn things at the point of a button or tap, they do not want to be lectured to. "Siri can often give a more comprehensive answer than many of us on any given topic." This statement is incredibly accurate and helps to show the amazing power of these social media/selfie/communication devices we hold in our hands. So, how we teach needs to change. It is no longer sensible to make students memorize rote facts and regurgitate what we teach them. We now have the opportunity to have these students think critically, solve problems, and use their creativity in ways they have never been able to do before.
Monday, November 3, 2014
5 Ways to Use Technology in the Special Education Classroom
Educational Technology-October 2, 2012
http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/tech-ed/5-ways-to-use-technology-in-the-special-education-classroom/
The author of this article discussed five of the many ways in which special educators could bring technology to their students with special needs in order to provide a 21st century classroom experience.
The first idea is to utilize the features found on the classroom computer's operating systems. My iMac houses these features in the Accessibility section in the System Preferences tab. At school, I use the slow keys function in which my students have to touch the keys each time they want to type a letter. This helps to eliminate the pretty rows of one letter that my students like to create when we type. There are other features found within the section that allow adaptations for many types of disabilities.
The second idea is Braille Displays. This function is able to read text that is sent to a machine that activates pins. Other versions read text either line by line or the entire documents depending upon their cost. There are versions that work with smartphones and tablets.
The third idea is Word Prediction Software, which works great for students with severe disabilities because they are able to create written documents without worrying about the spelling of their choice of words but creates laziness with students like mine.
The fourth idea is the use of tablets in the classroom, and the fifth is apps. I believe that these ideas go hand-in-hand. I can also speak from personal experience that my classroom iPads have been a lifesaver on many fronts. My students enjoy working for extra time, which is spent on apps used to improve sight word knowledge, hand-eye coordination, and math drill skills just to name a few. I also keep visual timers and clam down devices on the iPad, which the students respond to much better than the egg timers I use at times. Since many students with special needs are visual learners, tablets and apps are used to engage the students in activities that would seem difficult before.
Overall, technology in special education classrooms have allowed these students to expand their knowledge and demonstrate mastery in ways that teachers only imagined ten years ago. I have seen real gains with my own students since integrating technology into my daily lessons.
http://education.cu-portland.edu/blog/tech-ed/5-ways-to-use-technology-in-the-special-education-classroom/
The author of this article discussed five of the many ways in which special educators could bring technology to their students with special needs in order to provide a 21st century classroom experience.
The first idea is to utilize the features found on the classroom computer's operating systems. My iMac houses these features in the Accessibility section in the System Preferences tab. At school, I use the slow keys function in which my students have to touch the keys each time they want to type a letter. This helps to eliminate the pretty rows of one letter that my students like to create when we type. There are other features found within the section that allow adaptations for many types of disabilities.
The second idea is Braille Displays. This function is able to read text that is sent to a machine that activates pins. Other versions read text either line by line or the entire documents depending upon their cost. There are versions that work with smartphones and tablets.
The third idea is Word Prediction Software, which works great for students with severe disabilities because they are able to create written documents without worrying about the spelling of their choice of words but creates laziness with students like mine.
The fourth idea is the use of tablets in the classroom, and the fifth is apps. I believe that these ideas go hand-in-hand. I can also speak from personal experience that my classroom iPads have been a lifesaver on many fronts. My students enjoy working for extra time, which is spent on apps used to improve sight word knowledge, hand-eye coordination, and math drill skills just to name a few. I also keep visual timers and clam down devices on the iPad, which the students respond to much better than the egg timers I use at times. Since many students with special needs are visual learners, tablets and apps are used to engage the students in activities that would seem difficult before.
Overall, technology in special education classrooms have allowed these students to expand their knowledge and demonstrate mastery in ways that teachers only imagined ten years ago. I have seen real gains with my own students since integrating technology into my daily lessons.
Impact of Technology in Elementary Classrooms
About the Author
Author: Santosh Bhaskar KWebsite: http://www.twitter.com/SantoshBhaskarK
Devotee of Dr. Abdul
Kalam. Following his path of Creating Creative Education in India. Contributing
my works in "India Vision 2020". Former EdTech Blogger/Researcher at
ETR India
Mr. Santosh Bhaskar begins his article with the following: "Elementary Education should focus on learning through playing and exploration in order to improve a child's cognitive, emotional, physical, sensory, reflective, communication and social developments. Traditional classroom methods may not always provide children with a fun learning environment. But nowadays, technology helps educators engage students with many fun learning approaches." I agree with Mr. Bhaskar's view wholeheartedly. When I think of "traditional classroom methods", I visualize a lot of teacher lecture, a lot of teacher doing, a lot of kids watching, and a lot of worksheets and paper/pencil type work - not necessarily engaging or fun. I have been teaching for six years now and have seen first hand how rapidly technology has changed within that short time frame. I recognize the impact that technology has had on teaching practices such as having an online version of our new reading curriculum, having access to projectors and smartboards, having laptops, netbooks, i-pads, kindles and most recently chrome books, and how this technology has indeed, increased student engagement.
Mr. Bhaskar states that "Educators find the use of technological devices in education, a great way to engage students because it attracts them. Mobile devices and computers provide students with a fun learning environment. As we know, different students have different learning styles, technology helps them learn in the way they're comfortable with." As I reflect on this part of the article, I do agree that the use of technology engages students. I believe that the addition of technology can bring a lesson, concept, or topic to life, thus creating excitement and sparking student engagement. Technology can also aid the teacher and students by allowing for more opportunities for differentiation, interventions and enrichment. I do still believe however, that students need and should have a balance between technology/virtual hands-on learning and truly physical hands-on learning . I hope it never comes to the point where the personal human interaction of teaching by teachers and/or parents be completely replaced with technology.
The article also mentions that "There are some people who oppose technology in the classroom as it reduces physical activity." Again, I think there needs to be a good balance of technology based learning as well as other types of learning happening in classrooms. In my opinion, people fear that our children are on technology/electronics overload, overly stimulated, expect instant gratification, and rely on technology to get their answers instead of building concrete knowledge and understanding. That is why I believe there needs to be a balance. Technology should be used and it must be taught - like it or not, it is the current trend and the way of the world in present and future times. In conclusion, educational technology does positively impact student engagement. Used correctly and in moderation, teachers, students, and parents should continue to embrace technology as an excellent learning and teaching tool.
Saturday, November 1, 2014
Effects of Technology in the Classroom
Effects of Technology in the Classroom
This is a great article about the different effects technology has in the classroom. I really
like the main points the article hits about increased motivation and having students working collaboratively in the classroom. It shows how you can easily do some of these things with little or no work to yourself as a teacher. I also like the areas where they talk about the increased self esteem, I can see how teaching students these skills and helping them to feel confident and independent can help with their self esteem in and out of the classroom. Also depended on your population and students access to computers you could have students doing assignments at home and still working together in groups. I once had a cooperating teacher who used to make a powerpoint with himself recorded and pre-teach the math lesson they were going to learn the next day. So the students assignment was to listen to the lesson so that they were prepared the next day, if they did not have a computer at home they came into the room early (right after breakfast) and previewed it. This concept worked very well and could not have been used without technology!
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Reed Manstedt
http://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/high-school-notes/2011/09/07/more-high-schools-implement-ipad-programs?int=96e908
In this article it talked about how many schools today are going or have gone to a 1 to 1 technology format where each students gets their own iPad or tablet. The reason I found this article interesting is because my school here in Crete will be going to a 1 to 1 format here within the next several years.
Throughout the article it talked about how 4 schools out in California performed an evaluation over students who used the iPads to study and students who used traditional textbooks to study and surprisingly it was the students who used the iPad which scored higher. I found this interesting and feel that the main reason for this would be that with today's generation being so technologically driven (tv, video games, cell phones ect..) that the use of iPad for studying was much easier from a comfort standpoint for the students.
The article went on to talk about how iPads can also be a possible distraction in the classroom as well. With their being thousands of apps out there today, it is hard to regulate which apps the students are downloading and using. My biggest question for someone teaching at a 1 to 1 school, is how hard is it to make sure students are using the iPad in class for educational purposes and not just playing games on it?
In this article it talked about how many schools today are going or have gone to a 1 to 1 technology format where each students gets their own iPad or tablet. The reason I found this article interesting is because my school here in Crete will be going to a 1 to 1 format here within the next several years.
Throughout the article it talked about how 4 schools out in California performed an evaluation over students who used the iPads to study and students who used traditional textbooks to study and surprisingly it was the students who used the iPad which scored higher. I found this interesting and feel that the main reason for this would be that with today's generation being so technologically driven (tv, video games, cell phones ect..) that the use of iPad for studying was much easier from a comfort standpoint for the students.
The article went on to talk about how iPads can also be a possible distraction in the classroom as well. With their being thousands of apps out there today, it is hard to regulate which apps the students are downloading and using. My biggest question for someone teaching at a 1 to 1 school, is how hard is it to make sure students are using the iPad in class for educational purposes and not just playing games on it?
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Digital Citizenship
What do students really need to know about digital citizenship?
This article from Edutopia discussed the "9 Key P's" of digital citizenship. The author, Vicki Davis, suggests discussing the each of the following P's of digital citizenship throughout the year.
1. Passwords - Students must know how to create a secure password and a system for remembering those passwords. See 10 Important Password Tips Everyone Should Know.
2. Privacy - Are we teaching our students how to protect private information?
3. Personal Information - Be careful who and how much information you share!
4. Photographs - Geo-tagging features and facial recognition software can easy locate you!
5. Property - Caution must be taken when searching Google for images. Students must learn how to go to the source, ask permission, and cite the source.
6. Permission - Correctly site work you use! Give permission where it belongs.
7. Protection - Help students understand viruses and identity theft
8. Professionalism - Discuss netiquette - how to appropriately communicate on the Internet
9. Personal Brand - "Digital tattoo" - your online identify is formed by you over time. It is easy to create, but very difficult to remove!
I enjoyed reading this article by Vicki Davis. I want to teach my students to stay safe online. Often I believe students think they can hide behind their computer. I look forward to teaching my students about their "digital tattoo" and how they are building their online reputation now!
Monday, July 14, 2014
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Education groups back
$2 billion Wi-Fi plan
Key Senate
Dems push back on FCC’s Wi-Fi plan
http://thehill.com/policy/technology/211638-key-senate-dems-push-back-on-fccs-wi-fi-plan
http://thehill.com/policy/technology/211638-key-senate-dems-push-back-on-fccs-wi-fi-plan
The two related articles talk about a proposal by the Federal
Communications Commission to reform the E-Rate funding program. The program,
which allocates billions of dollars to schools and libraries, funds
technological improvements, particularly in internet connectivity. The proposed
shifts focus on modernizing the application process to make it easier and more
transparent, and also to shift the funding focus toward having Wi-Fi in all
schools over the next few years. The proposals have had a mixed response in
educational groups. Most are in favor of the modernization process. At issue is
the focus on Wi-Fi; some groups including some U.S. Senate Democrats see the
focus on Wi-Fi as having unintended consequences. They say that by requiring a large
portion of the budget to go to Wi-Fi, funding for basic connectivity in
less-populated rural areas may get swept aside while more federal dollars go to
making already good systems even better.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
Why Integrate Technology Into the Curriculum?
Article link: http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction
In this article on Edutopia, the authors discuss several reasons that technology should be integrated into regular classroom curriculum. The approach reminded me of the multicultural course I took last month; just as multicultural perspectives need to be a natural part of any lesson plan, so do technological elements.
Many adults and educators are frustrated at the extent to which technology has taken over society. However, our job as educators is not only to teach kids about the past, but to prepare them for the future. Their future is going to include new and changing technologies, and incorporating them into our classrooms is vital.
I also liked the mention of technology aiding teachers in teaching with different strategies and assessments. Being open to the use of technology in the classroom means giving students more chances to learn and retain. I'm excited to use the tools that I've gained in this course to prepare my students for their technology-filled futures.
In this article on Edutopia, the authors discuss several reasons that technology should be integrated into regular classroom curriculum. The approach reminded me of the multicultural course I took last month; just as multicultural perspectives need to be a natural part of any lesson plan, so do technological elements.
Many adults and educators are frustrated at the extent to which technology has taken over society. However, our job as educators is not only to teach kids about the past, but to prepare them for the future. Their future is going to include new and changing technologies, and incorporating them into our classrooms is vital.
I also liked the mention of technology aiding teachers in teaching with different strategies and assessments. Being open to the use of technology in the classroom means giving students more chances to learn and retain. I'm excited to use the tools that I've gained in this course to prepare my students for their technology-filled futures.
The Integration of Instructional Technology into Public Education: Promises and Challenges
Rodney Earle is concerned with the
integration of instructional technology in the classroom and this article seeks
to answer the fundamental questions of how it has been done and why. Earle
begins by attempting to define the concept of technology. Earle responds to a
rather dated definition of technology by Webster’s in stating, “this limited
focus on machinery at the expense of process ignores the true sense of
technology as ‘the systematic application of scientific and other organized
knowledge to practical tasks.’”
Earle continues by explaining the
implications of this definition in the public mind as well as its present
application in the classroom. He reviews many studies in which the use of
technology becomes a concern. The opposition state that our schools will become
“overwired” while our children our undertaught. Those in high favor of
technology point out how it improves student motivation and enhances student learning.
Recently, the negative social effects of technology (specifically social
networking) on our students are becoming more evident, but Earle points out
Hadley and Sheingold’s 1993 theory that technology “must go beyond information
retrieval to problem solving; allow new instructional and learning experiences
not possible without them; promote deep processing of ideas; increase student interaction
with subject matter; and promote faculty and student enthusiasm for teaching
and learning.” Earle wants his readers to know that integrating technology into
the classroom is not about technology, but rather about content and effective
instructional practices.
The remaining portions of the
article deal with the process of accepting change, identifying the restraining
forces (funding, time, support, training, etc…), and discussing further studies
about the reality of the place of technology. In his final reflection, Earle
quotes Margaret Honey by concluding that in order for technology to have real
gains in any educational situation the following must exist: leadership, solid educational
objectives, professional development, adequate technology resources , time, and
evaluation. The most lasting idea in Earle’s argument is that the teacher
remains the most important aspect of student success, with or without technology.
Please see the below link for the full article: http://isites.harvard.edu/fs/docs/icb.topic87187.files/Earle02.pdf
Friday, July 4, 2014
Lynn Beistline - How Technology Trends Have Influenced the Classroom
Technology has changed immensely over the last couple of
decades. This has caused a change in the way that students, and adults, learn.
Teachers need to find ways to create engaging classrooms that reflect a
classroom of tomorrow.
This article takes a look at the increase of technological
interactivity, the on-demand access to it, and how the human brain craves it.
To adjust to this in the classroom, teachers should provide students with
multiple mini-brain break activities to help re-invigorate student minds to
keep them interested in the lessons being taught. Because we as a society,
especially here in the United States, do not have to wait for much of anything,
the way teachers teach in the classroom needs to change.
Having nearly everything accessible at any moment with the
touch of a button, students are no longer limited to what is available in the
school library, or the names websites given to them by teachers. This is a HUGE
challenge in the classroom as it impacts everyone in different ways. Some students
have access to technology 24 hours a day 7 days a week. While, others only have
the access while at school. Technology can also only be useful when teachers
embrace it in a positive way and are able to teach their content in a way that
reaches all students of the digital age. Until then it will be an uphill battle
to reach students at the deepest level of learning, enjoyment, and investment.
Article: How Technology Trends Have Influenced the
Classroom. March 5, 2014. http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/03/how-real-world-technology-use-has-inflitrated-change-classrooms/. Accessed 07/04/2014.
10 Reasons Today’s Students NEED Technology in the Classroom
This article discusses that as technology in the world increases, it makes since that it should increase in the classroom setting as well. There are ten reasons why technology should be used in the classroom. The first reason is that it will help prepare students for their future careers. Students need to know how to utilize wireless technology. Using technology is also a good way to encourage diversity in different learning styles. Technology is thought to encourage collaboration and get students to interact with each other. Students need to learn to be tech-savvy because that is what the world is becoming. Students enjoy technology so they stay engaged in the information being taught and also are more apt to learn. Technology provides up to date information easily and quickly for students. With technology, the teacher is able to encourage the students and can coach them rather than do passive learning. Technology is thought to make students more responsible and it makes them feel like they have control over their learning. Finally, with the use of technology, students are able to access their class materials online. This is quick, cheap and information is often creative and eye-catching.
Technology has its pros and cons in the world in which we live. Yes, it is a great tool for learning but it also has drawbacks. Students can be hurtful towards one another with the social media sites. Since technology is increasing in the world, it is important that it is used in the schools as well. School is meant to prepare students for the future and to be productive members in society. It is important that they are knowledgeable once in the real world.
http://www.securedgenetworks.com/secure-edge-networks-blog/bid/95375/10-Reasons-Today-s-Students-NEED-Technology-in-the-Classroom
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Bradley Bowker
Flip Your Students Learning.
This article focuses on the benefits of using a flipped classroom modle. One of the biggest benefits of using a rippled classroom is that the teacher can more effectively use class time for higher learning. As for technology it suggested using screencasts, recorded lectures from a computer, to create lessons for students to watch outside of the classroom. These lectures/lessons can be loaded on the school server or on a website so that students can have access to them when out of school.
One of the biggest concerns I have is that this use of technology can be disadvantageous for students who do not have internet connectivity at home. The article have a suggestion to help this: it suggested that teachers can make DVDs of their lessons as well.
Another benefit using recorded lectures is that teachers can create a classroom where students can learn at their own pace. For students who need extra time learning content they can re-watch lectures as many times as needed. It also allows students who do poorly on an assessment to come back to the lecture and freshen up on information they may have missed.
Flip Your Students Learning.
This article focuses on the benefits of using a flipped classroom modle. One of the biggest benefits of using a rippled classroom is that the teacher can more effectively use class time for higher learning. As for technology it suggested using screencasts, recorded lectures from a computer, to create lessons for students to watch outside of the classroom. These lectures/lessons can be loaded on the school server or on a website so that students can have access to them when out of school.
One of the biggest concerns I have is that this use of technology can be disadvantageous for students who do not have internet connectivity at home. The article have a suggestion to help this: it suggested that teachers can make DVDs of their lessons as well.
Another benefit using recorded lectures is that teachers can create a classroom where students can learn at their own pace. For students who need extra time learning content they can re-watch lectures as many times as needed. It also allows students who do poorly on an assessment to come back to the lecture and freshen up on information they may have missed.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Impact of Technology in Elementary Classrooms
The article, "Impact of Technology in Elementary Classrooms" explores the differences in the ways today's students learn compared to traditional classroom methods. According to this article, traditional methods do not always provide children with a fun, engaging learning environment. However, this is where the wide variety technologies comes into play. Though technology is a great enhancement to regular teaching practices, the article emphasizes the importance of proper use of technology in the classroom in order to reap the benefits (that research has proven) technology has in learning. "Impact of Technology in Elementary Classrooms" listed the following statistics about technology use by children to show the great influence technology has on elementary aged children:
One of the major benefits of technology (mobile devices such as iPod, iPad, tablets and computers) in the classroom is the way in which it engages students. Technology engages students more than a traditional lesson because it is something that they are familiar with and interested in. Rather than it being a typical worksheet, educational applications make learning interactive through the use of games and activities. It is also a way to make the presentation of the lesson much more engaging and interactive with the use of animations and presentation tools. The use of professional social networks in the classroom allows students, teachers, and parents to communicate from anywhere at any time. According to the article, social networks (used in education) also helps students develop their social skills, research skills, and communication skills.
http://edtechreview.in/trends-insights/trends/658-impact-of-technology-in-elementary-classrooms
According to an infographic published by Everyday Family,
54% of 21st century kids start using mobile devices when they are 5 to 8 years old.
30% of the apps on parents’ mobile are downloaded specially for their children’s usage.
77% of the parents accept that usage of tablet increases children’s learning & creativity.
72% of iTunes top selling apps are designed for pre-schoolers and elementary students.
One of the major benefits of technology (mobile devices such as iPod, iPad, tablets and computers) in the classroom is the way in which it engages students. Technology engages students more than a traditional lesson because it is something that they are familiar with and interested in. Rather than it being a typical worksheet, educational applications make learning interactive through the use of games and activities. It is also a way to make the presentation of the lesson much more engaging and interactive with the use of animations and presentation tools. The use of professional social networks in the classroom allows students, teachers, and parents to communicate from anywhere at any time. According to the article, social networks (used in education) also helps students develop their social skills, research skills, and communication skills.
Although the article recognizes that there are many negative sides to the use of technology, they emphasize that "technology has the ability to overcome its negative impacts when used properly." An example of this is that some people suggest technology reduces physical activity, whereas there are games being developed that require physical movement through motion-sensing technology. Overall, this article believes that technology is a way to reach a wider group of learners within the elementary classroom setting.
http://edtechreview.in/trends-insights/trends/658-impact-of-technology-in-elementary-classrooms
Amanda Wall--technology post
http://www.edutopia.org/blog/technology-tips-younger-elementary
I really appreciated this article that gave tips for younger elementary with technology.
One of the tips was to train one of your tech savy students so that if other students struggle with the technology you have introduced that student can be a helper! At the first grade level, other students will become jealous that that student got to e the helper so I will have to give many students the opportunity to be the helper. This article gave additional tips such as setting a learning goal(s) when introducing technology, not teaching too much technology at one time, and playing around with the technology and getting to know it before you introduce it to your students!
I look forward to using these tips this upcoming year in teaching!
I really appreciated this article that gave tips for younger elementary with technology.
One of the tips was to train one of your tech savy students so that if other students struggle with the technology you have introduced that student can be a helper! At the first grade level, other students will become jealous that that student got to e the helper so I will have to give many students the opportunity to be the helper. This article gave additional tips such as setting a learning goal(s) when introducing technology, not teaching too much technology at one time, and playing around with the technology and getting to know it before you introduce it to your students!
I look forward to using these tips this upcoming year in teaching!
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Advantages of Technology in the Classroom
There are many benefits to integrating technology into the classroom setting. As children become increasingly digitally literate, integrating technology into the classroom will prepare them for a future that will include worldwide computer usage. Integrating technology in the classroom helps students remain engaged in their own learning. Interactive learning increases a students attention span and involvement in the learning activities. Different websites that teachers can use allow student to work individually at their own pace, with teacher guidance via the web interaction. There are also websites where students can learn and participate collaboratively where they will learn valuable skills that will help them grow and eventually enter the workforce and be ready to collaborate with coworkers.
https://www.boundless.com/education/technology-in-the-classroom/edtech/advantages-of-using-technology-in-the-classroom/
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Why Integrate Technology in the Curriculum? The Reasons are Many?
In this article the author discusses the importance of building technology across all levels of curriculum as opposed to how some schools may be set up where they teach like a computer technology course, but do not incorporate it into other classes. The technology in the classroom must his on four key components of learning: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real work experts.
Using technology in the classroom can allow students to not only be engaged in products, but in can also give them a glimpse of what it looks like to work in a modern day office. Using technology in the classroom the students can build on their problem solving skills individually or in teams. They can also use online information and synthesize and process the information.
With all the online information the classroom can become more interesting, diverse, and current. Students can connect to online experts and can be more engaged in the classroom. Technology also changes the way we teach. It gives teachers the opportunity to reach students in different ways. When integrated correctly technology can allow the teacher to to move into the role of a coach, adviser. Technology can make teaching more interesting and fun for the teacher as well.
After reading this article it has made me think about technology use in the classroom. It made me think how helpful it can be to both the teacher and the student when used correctly. It can engaged students and make learning more applicable to the students. However, we cannot use technology and not be active with it. We need to make sure we are using it to help us connect with the students and not just to make our jobs easier. We need to stay engaged as the teacher even though our role will slightly change. I want to start thinking about all the times I use technology and make sure it relates to the four components listed at the top of this post: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real work experts.
http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction
Using technology in the classroom can allow students to not only be engaged in products, but in can also give them a glimpse of what it looks like to work in a modern day office. Using technology in the classroom the students can build on their problem solving skills individually or in teams. They can also use online information and synthesize and process the information.
With all the online information the classroom can become more interesting, diverse, and current. Students can connect to online experts and can be more engaged in the classroom. Technology also changes the way we teach. It gives teachers the opportunity to reach students in different ways. When integrated correctly technology can allow the teacher to to move into the role of a coach, adviser. Technology can make teaching more interesting and fun for the teacher as well.
After reading this article it has made me think about technology use in the classroom. It made me think how helpful it can be to both the teacher and the student when used correctly. It can engaged students and make learning more applicable to the students. However, we cannot use technology and not be active with it. We need to make sure we are using it to help us connect with the students and not just to make our jobs easier. We need to stay engaged as the teacher even though our role will slightly change. I want to start thinking about all the times I use technology and make sure it relates to the four components listed at the top of this post: active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, and connection to real work experts.
http://www.edutopia.org/technology-integration-introduction
Friday, June 20, 2014
Technology in the Classroom: The Benefits of Blended Learning
This article/blog focused on four specific benefits to using technology in the classroom. First, technology can keep students focused for longer periods of time. It is a tremendous time saver when used to conduct research. Second, it makes students more excited to learn. Students are more likely to be interested in, focused on, and excited about the subjects they are studying when technology is integrated. Third, technology enables students to learn at their own pace. They are able to get direct, individualized instruction from the computer. Fourth, technology prepares students and teachers for the future. Both students and teachers will develop skills essential for the 21st century. This article concluded by stating that yes, there are cons to technology, but when used correctly technology can help both teachers and students soar to success!
After reading this article/blog I am more committed to integrating technology into my classroom because of the tremendous benefits!
https://nms.org/Blog/TabId/58/PostId/188/technology-in-the-classroom-the-benefits-of-blended-learning.aspx
After reading this article/blog I am more committed to integrating technology into my classroom because of the tremendous benefits!
https://nms.org/Blog/TabId/58/PostId/188/technology-in-the-classroom-the-benefits-of-blended-learning.aspx
Monday, May 5, 2014
Five Ways Teachers Can Use Technology to Help Students
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/darrell-west/five-ways-teachers-can-us_b_3228851.html
"Books will soon be obsolete in the public schools......our school system will be completely changed inside of ten years." - Thomas Edison
Darrell West and Joshua Bleiberg start their article off with this powerful quote from Thomas Edison. Thomas made this prediction over 100 years ago. The school system and classroom has hardly changed in the past 100 years. West and Bleiberg state, "The education system operates under the antiquated needs of an agrarian and industrialAmerica
After complaining about what has kept our educational system has been held back, West and Bleiberg give five suggestions to empower teachers to utilize technology to help students learn. There five points are: schools must use technology that empowers teachers, teachers should treat the adoption of technology as part of lesson planning, teachers should not fear open-source technologies, use online education portfolios to evaluate students, and teachers should embrace the Common Core State Standards. They give supporting evidence for each point.
I enjoyed getting to learn about the past of the educational system and why technology has not been implemented. Knowing the background and the problem is the start of change. The five points were well thought out and very good suggestions. Teachers are afraid of the communication abilities that social media brings. The big fight with phones is that students are constantly texting, tweeting, snap chatting, and much more with other students. Teachers fail to try to use apps that empower them as teachers. The ability to share lesson plans wirelessly is an exciting thought. Teachers would be very excited if they could search a database of lesson plans that someone else had perfected.
The point that district leaders are trying new things and ditching the old way too often is an appealing thought. It makes since that a beneficial reform would be difficult if the time is always spent implementing changes the district continues to make. Utilizing sites likeKahn Academy
I would like to utilize technology in my classroom but not enable the kids to use it in the classroom. I enjoy watchingKahn Academy
"Books will soon be obsolete in the public schools......our school system will be completely changed inside of ten years." - Thomas Edison
Darrell West and Joshua Bleiberg start their article off with this powerful quote from Thomas Edison. Thomas made this prediction over 100 years ago. The school system and classroom has hardly changed in the past 100 years. West and Bleiberg state, "The education system operates under the antiquated needs of an agrarian and industrial
After complaining about what has kept our educational system has been held back, West and Bleiberg give five suggestions to empower teachers to utilize technology to help students learn. There five points are: schools must use technology that empowers teachers, teachers should treat the adoption of technology as part of lesson planning, teachers should not fear open-source technologies, use online education portfolios to evaluate students, and teachers should embrace the Common Core State Standards. They give supporting evidence for each point.
I enjoyed getting to learn about the past of the educational system and why technology has not been implemented. Knowing the background and the problem is the start of change. The five points were well thought out and very good suggestions. Teachers are afraid of the communication abilities that social media brings. The big fight with phones is that students are constantly texting, tweeting, snap chatting, and much more with other students. Teachers fail to try to use apps that empower them as teachers. The ability to share lesson plans wirelessly is an exciting thought. Teachers would be very excited if they could search a database of lesson plans that someone else had perfected.
The point that district leaders are trying new things and ditching the old way too often is an appealing thought. It makes since that a beneficial reform would be difficult if the time is always spent implementing changes the district continues to make. Utilizing sites like
I would like to utilize technology in my classroom but not enable the kids to use it in the classroom. I enjoy watching
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
A Guidebook for Social Media in the Classroom
In “A Guidebook for Social Media in the Classroom,” Vicki
Davis writes about the need for students to learn how to use and write for
social media. She suggests that there is one powerful form of writing that can
get you fired, will be read by college admission counselors, and haunt a
political campaign, and that form is social media. Given its power, she
believes that we should be teaching students how to communicate, that is, how
to write, when using social media. She also gives several examples of how
teachers are doing this in their classrooms.
“Social media is another tool that you can use to make your
classroom more engaging, relevant and culturally diverse,” says Davis, and I
have to agree. Yes, as teachers we often loathe the potential for Snapchats and
Instagram posts to take over our students’ attention in the classroom, but the
reality is, the technology is in their hands, and there’s nothing we can do to
stop it.
However,
we as teachers are far from powerless. I believe,
especially as a social studies teacher, that it is imperative that I
teach my students how to use these social tools responsibly.
Unfortunately, not all
parents realize the extent to which their students are posting to these
sites, and therefore, aren't spending enough time monitoring or teaching
students what's smart and what's not when it comes to posting. And
certainly many of our students do not realize the potential long term
consequences of posting comments or pictures. Teachers do have the
ability and opportunity to
educate students about social media, and I believe we should be
embracing this role.
As Davis suggests in her article, one way to do this is to
use these social media sites in our lesson plans. By following the examples
that she shares in the article, we can not only teach responsible use and
demonstrate how wide-reaching these sites can be, but we can also effectively
teach content and writing skills. Our students must be taught how to
communicate through these mediums because they’ll be using them, or similar
technology, for the rest of their lives. By using them in our classroom, we can
not only engage students in learning but also help them understand how to be responsible
posters and discerning consumers of the information they process from social
media.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Recent Findings on Technology in the Classroom
This article touches on several different points. It talks about how the needs of learners have changed and so have the ways in which teachers teach. There are so many different levels of students and abilities in the classroom now and technology can help with the individualization of learning for the students. I agree with this. Right now I have some of my students who have tested out of my math curriculum working on a self-driven math program on the computers. Once I taught them how to use it, and we got the computers to work, they loved it. They can go at their own pace and they aren't sitting listening to me and working on material they already have mastered.
I also use another program for reading and it is a program where each child can read books at their own individual level and this personalizes the reading and the quizzes(learning) for them. The books are at their ability level as well as the questions about the books and the best part is I can monitor all of their activities and see what they are doing well on and what they need help with. Something that they mention in the article that I whole-heartedly agree with is how much time it takes to teach and learn technology. It takes up so much time, especially working with younger children. When the computers don't work or one small thing goes wrong then they need your help. So sometimes, it can get in the way of learning depending on how well your children know the technology.
The last thing that the article states it that is helps student focus. I agree with this because I know that my own students are more engaged with learning when they are using technology. However, I would hate for all learning to be done using technology because I think there is something to be said for eye contact and person-to-person communication. Sometimes I get nervous about teachers using too much technology in my classroom because I want my students to be able to talk or explain without blogging or posting to a discussion board. But, in general I think that technology greatly improves the learning in the classroom.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/drew-hendricks/technology-education_b_2867458.html
I also use another program for reading and it is a program where each child can read books at their own individual level and this personalizes the reading and the quizzes(learning) for them. The books are at their ability level as well as the questions about the books and the best part is I can monitor all of their activities and see what they are doing well on and what they need help with. Something that they mention in the article that I whole-heartedly agree with is how much time it takes to teach and learn technology. It takes up so much time, especially working with younger children. When the computers don't work or one small thing goes wrong then they need your help. So sometimes, it can get in the way of learning depending on how well your children know the technology.
The last thing that the article states it that is helps student focus. I agree with this because I know that my own students are more engaged with learning when they are using technology. However, I would hate for all learning to be done using technology because I think there is something to be said for eye contact and person-to-person communication. Sometimes I get nervous about teachers using too much technology in my classroom because I want my students to be able to talk or explain without blogging or posting to a discussion board. But, in general I think that technology greatly improves the learning in the classroom.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/drew-hendricks/technology-education_b_2867458.html
How do special education students benefit from technology?
The author of this article examines the myth that special education students cannot utilize the same technology as those students in the general education classroom are able to use. In fact, technology serves as an equalizer in the classroom, as students with disabilities are able to access differentiated curriculum via assistive technology devices and software.
Examples of assistive technology in the classroom include e-Readers to help students with vision or dexterity issues and Dragon voice recognition software, which allows students to answer questions without needing to write. Reading assessments can also be given using iPad or iPod apps. There are many apps that provide support for students with reading and/or writing disabilities, including Voice Thread, Sounding Board, and TechMatrix. These different software applications make access to the general or special education curriculum easier for students with various disabilities. Finally, the author proposes that providing access to technology increases student motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment for those students who struggle in the general education classroom.
http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/6917?ref=popular
Examples of assistive technology in the classroom include e-Readers to help students with vision or dexterity issues and Dragon voice recognition software, which allows students to answer questions without needing to write. Reading assessments can also be given using iPad or iPod apps. There are many apps that provide support for students with reading and/or writing disabilities, including Voice Thread, Sounding Board, and TechMatrix. These different software applications make access to the general or special education curriculum easier for students with various disabilities. Finally, the author proposes that providing access to technology increases student motivation and provides a sense of accomplishment for those students who struggle in the general education classroom.
http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/6917?ref=popular
How Technology Trends Have Influenced the Classroom
This article/blog addresses the differences between how people used to learn, compared to how students learn today. I really enjoy the point that the author, Carl Hooker, makes about how we used to have to wait to watch TV and movies, and now we can watch whatever we want - whenever we want. Hooker relates this idea to the classroom. Maybe it's not a bad idea to allow students to "binge learn," similar to how we binge watch TV. He suggests recording some lessons, or providing materials online for students to learn when they choose. This of course should be done as one of many options. I don't think that some teachers could get on board with doing all of their teaching through technology, but honestly I see happening in the near future.
Hooker also makes me reflect on the idea of filtering what we write. What we used to read would always have to go through publishers, editors, advertisers and others before we got to read the material. Now, people are able to write with limited or no filtering. This can really encourage students to write their own raw opinions, and not just what the teacher wants them to write.
http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/03/how-real-world-technology-use-has-inflitrated-change-classrooms/
Hooker also makes me reflect on the idea of filtering what we write. What we used to read would always have to go through publishers, editors, advertisers and others before we got to read the material. Now, people are able to write with limited or no filtering. This can really encourage students to write their own raw opinions, and not just what the teacher wants them to write.
http://blogs.kqed.org/mindshift/2014/03/how-real-world-technology-use-has-inflitrated-change-classrooms/
Sunday, April 13, 2014
Five Benefits of Emerging Classroom Technology
This article reports on information from k-12 teachers and college professors regarding increased technology in the classroom. Benefits such as increased student productivity. Educators reported that students were more productive because of the tools they were able to use. Performance also increased, students were able to watch online lectures and podcasts at their leisure. Having iPads in the classroom not only increased enthusiasm but attendance as well. A school with an all digital library reported that students could access all of the resources of the school library from anywhere thus increasing student outcomes.
This article clearly showed that technology does increase student interest and performance.
http://info.lecturetools.com/blog/bid/38720/New-Study-Highlights-5-Benefits-of-Emerging-Classroom-Technology
This article clearly showed that technology does increase student interest and performance.
http://info.lecturetools.com/blog/bid/38720/New-Study-Highlights-5-Benefits-of-Emerging-Classroom-Technology
Friday, April 4, 2014
10 Major Technology Trends in Education
http://thejournal.com/articles/2014/02/03/10-major-technology-trends-in-education.aspx
Summary:
This article takes information from numerous studies done about technology trends in education. Some of the 10 topics covered include, personal access to mobile devices, use of video for homework, use of mobile devices in and out of the classroom (homework, and in-class work), social media in schools, and the diversity of all the different tools and apps students are using. It is a good read that shows the shift from how education used to be to what it is now, and the direction it is headed because of technology!
http://thejournal.com/articles/2014/02/03/10-major-technology-trends-in-education.aspx
Summary:
This article takes information from numerous studies done about technology trends in education. Some of the 10 topics covered include, personal access to mobile devices, use of video for homework, use of mobile devices in and out of the classroom (homework, and in-class work), social media in schools, and the diversity of all the different tools and apps students are using. It is a good read that shows the shift from how education used to be to what it is now, and the direction it is headed because of technology!
http://thejournal.com/articles/2014/02/03/10-major-technology-trends-in-education.aspx
Friday, March 28, 2014
Lynde Conroy-Technology in the Elementary Classroom
http://www.naesp.org/principal-januaryfebruary-2012-technology/technology-integration-new-21st-century-learner
This article discusses how today's young learners are expected to learn far more than core curriculum standards. Student's will be expected to be technologically fluent, even in elementary school. Students may become bored by traditional technology in the classroom, and will need to be exposed to extra stimuli and ever-evolving changes to technology. This indicates that teachers will need to continually evolve and update their technology knowledge and application just to keep up with what our young students are doing. This presents several questions: while the challenge and shift in technology is a positive step for education, how will this be implemented by school districts? How can staff receive training and access to new technology, or is "keeping up" with the students technological discoveries realistic or even feasible?http://www.naesp.org/principal-januaryfebruary-2012-tehnology/technology-integration-new-21st-century-learner
This article discusses how today's young learners are expected to learn far more than core curriculum standards. Student's will be expected to be technologically fluent, even in elementary school. Students may become bored by traditional technology in the classroom, and will need to be exposed to extra stimuli and ever-evolving changes to technology. This indicates that teachers will need to continually evolve and update their technology knowledge and application just to keep up with what our young students are doing. This presents several questions: while the challenge and shift in technology is a positive step for education, how will this be implemented by school districts? How can staff receive training and access to new technology, or is "keeping up" with the students technological discoveries realistic or even feasible?http://www.naesp.org/principal-januaryfebruary-2012-tehnology/technology-integration-new-21st-century-learner
Thursday, March 27, 2014
Cooper Blog Post- Using Webquest in the Classroom article
http://alicechristie.org/edtech/wq/about.html
Summary
Dr. Christie
emphasizes the way that Webquest can engage learners, and she discusses how a
Webquest guides students through a process. She explains the two types: short-term
and long-term. Short-term can be finished in less than a week, whereas
long-term can last up to a month and often requires students to transform what
they've learned into a creation piece. In addition, she shows ways that
Webquests can benefit students' use of the internet, such as comparing and
contrasting websites and understanding the difference between reliable and
unreliable websites. Finally, she describes the different components of a
Webquest, and emphasizes how they can be used to connect students with
real-life experiences.
James Watson Article: The false promise of classroom technology.
http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-11-11/the-false-promise-of-classroom-technology
This article talks about how it is good to have technology in schools such as computers and computer labs however they are not a substitute for teachers. The article goes on to talk about how there was a study where computers were dropped off with no instructions and within weeks students were on Disney channel and other social media sites.That study didn't show where computers helped students that much.In a separate study students were given computers that were specifically designed and could only go to certain sites and sites like YouTube and Disney were blocked. those students showed more educational growth. In the end computers are of great value but the educators need to be educated on how to correctly use them in the classroom to make sure they are doing more good than harm.
http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-11-11/the-false-promise-of-classroom-technology
This article talks about how it is good to have technology in schools such as computers and computer labs however they are not a substitute for teachers. The article goes on to talk about how there was a study where computers were dropped off with no instructions and within weeks students were on Disney channel and other social media sites.That study didn't show where computers helped students that much.In a separate study students were given computers that were specifically designed and could only go to certain sites and sites like YouTube and Disney were blocked. those students showed more educational growth. In the end computers are of great value but the educators need to be educated on how to correctly use them in the classroom to make sure they are doing more good than harm.
http://www.businessweek.com/articles/2013-11-11/the-false-promise-of-classroom-technology
James Watson
1. This site would be useful for students to do group work outside of school. This site would make it easy for students to work together without having to be in the same place. It would be really good for students who may not have transportation, or for students that have practice after school and they could add their portion when they get home or from another library. This would allow for projects to be completed without the stress of setting up specific meeting times and places.
2. Teachers can use this for assignments that may stretch across several weeks to have students collaborate when they are not at school or if a student is home sick. This site also allow for teachers to check on how much work everyone is doing, as well as if they are struggling or if it is to easy for a student that way a teacher can tailor it to a specific student.Teachers can also give quick feedback on assignments. Another good thing is all of this is in one place you don't have to go from site to site.
2. Teachers can use this for assignments that may stretch across several weeks to have students collaborate when they are not at school or if a student is home sick. This site also allow for teachers to check on how much work everyone is doing, as well as if they are struggling or if it is to easy for a student that way a teacher can tailor it to a specific student.Teachers can also give quick feedback on assignments. Another good thing is all of this is in one place you don't have to go from site to site.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Ipads are the newest tools for some preschoolers
This article discussed how ipads are becoming present more and more in the early childhood grades. It pointed out many districts that have purchased classroom ipad sets and have begun to do studies on how the students progress academically when using them. This article was written in 2011, so I'd be very interested to see the results of this study. The article also discussed how ipads will not take away the importance of paper/pencil or hands on learning. This is an important point to make because many of our youngest children learn best by manipulating items in their hands rather than taking a finger across an ipad to solve a problem. There was a comment about how OT/PT professionals are seeing ipads help with handwriting and fine motor skills. I agree completely with this, as I have a student this year who had become so frustrated with writing time because of his poor motor skills. Now after practicing handwriting games on the ipad, he has a renewed sense of confidence in himself and writes great stories that I always knew he had in his brain but could never get onto paper. I think the article did a nice job of explaining how valuable the technology we have is, but also to be cautious about only using ipads and other devices to teach with. Teachers are still very important and hands on learning will always be one of the best ways to learn. I hope teachers can find a way to incorporate technology into their teaching in order to engage students, but also remember to include social skills building and other modes of learning as well.
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
"Study: Emerging Technology Has Positive Impact in Classroom" from US News
http://www.usnews.com/education/high-schools/articles/2011/07/14/study-emerging-technology-has-positive-impact-in-classroom
Technology is quickly becoming a must for teachers and students. From transportable digital libraries to homework help and tutorials at home, technology is improving the lives of students. Studies are showing an ever increasing benefit to bringing technology into the classroom. However, there is still a disconnect between what technology can do and who has access to it. In Chicago Public Schools there are over 400,000 students but only enough computers for a fourth of them. Some teachers are now putting their lectures online and assigning them as homework so classtime can be devoted to practice and not teaching. Students without computer or internet access will miss out on valuable information. Plus, pre-recorded lectures do not offer the teacher-student interaction required to ensure students are grasping concepts. This last example appears to be a good idea but I would advise against widespread implementation. Also, school budgets remain a hindrance to being able to equitably bring technology into the classroom.
While some teachers may roll their eyes at technology in the classroom, it is becoming an ever increasing necessity. Students are living in a different world than most of us grew up in. They are more stimulated and more tech savvy than many of the teachers in front of them. It is up to schools to keep up with the times and accept that more and more studies are advocating for technology in the classroom to meet the ever growing tech savvy student population.
Technology is quickly becoming a must for teachers and students. From transportable digital libraries to homework help and tutorials at home, technology is improving the lives of students. Studies are showing an ever increasing benefit to bringing technology into the classroom. However, there is still a disconnect between what technology can do and who has access to it. In Chicago Public Schools there are over 400,000 students but only enough computers for a fourth of them. Some teachers are now putting their lectures online and assigning them as homework so classtime can be devoted to practice and not teaching. Students without computer or internet access will miss out on valuable information. Plus, pre-recorded lectures do not offer the teacher-student interaction required to ensure students are grasping concepts. This last example appears to be a good idea but I would advise against widespread implementation. Also, school budgets remain a hindrance to being able to equitably bring technology into the classroom.
While some teachers may roll their eyes at technology in the classroom, it is becoming an ever increasing necessity. Students are living in a different world than most of us grew up in. They are more stimulated and more tech savvy than many of the teachers in front of them. It is up to schools to keep up with the times and accept that more and more studies are advocating for technology in the classroom to meet the ever growing tech savvy student population.
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Effects of Technology on Classrooms and Students
http://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/effectsstudents.html
I believe that technology in the classroom has an amazing effect on teacher instruction and student learning. With my iPad, students are so engaged. I have never seen so many hands raised to solve a math problem on the iPad or 'google' a definition that we are trying to figure out. It empowers students to not only be learners, but to be their own teacher as well.
This article touches on a few different effects that technology has in the classroom.
1) As I mentioned above, there is a change in the teacher role as well as the student role. Students are able to 'own' their learning and become their own teachers. I never quite feel like I can give them all of the answers, but with a tablet- we can find the answer together.
2) There is an increase in motivation and self-esteem. I hand the iPad to my special education students and they feel empowered. They are able to lead the class in a reading by pressing the appropriate buttons to listen to the story. My favorite part of technology is fast results. Students take weekly reading tests online and the second they press submit, they are able to see their answers, the correct answers, and rationales for why that is the correct answer. It is a brilliant way to help students create goals and reflect on their learning.
3) Students are receiving technical skills: how to work a computer, microsoft offices, etc. When an alarm pops up on their screen and they have to click yes or no, it is a learning opportunity! Although the technology will most likely change when they are in the work force, they will have a background to become quick learners of the new technology.
4) Students are collaborating with each other whether it is solving a problem together using the iPad or helping another student get to a website because they are unfamiliar. Students love to be the teachers in the classroom. They are able to switch roles and help rather than sit back and learn.
5) Students are becoming more aware of the audience that will see their work. Instead of solving a math problem on a piece of paper quickly, they plan out how they are solving it on the iPad because the video will go up on our classroom website and they will be able to... again... be the teacher! When I use the app Educreations, my students try to solve problems and explain them in a way so that if there was a second grader trying to learn what we were doing it- they could!
There were a few other points in this article, but these 5 were the ones that really pulled me into thought.
-Emily Wiebeck
http://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/effectsstudents.html
I believe that technology in the classroom has an amazing effect on teacher instruction and student learning. With my iPad, students are so engaged. I have never seen so many hands raised to solve a math problem on the iPad or 'google' a definition that we are trying to figure out. It empowers students to not only be learners, but to be their own teacher as well.
This article touches on a few different effects that technology has in the classroom.
1) As I mentioned above, there is a change in the teacher role as well as the student role. Students are able to 'own' their learning and become their own teachers. I never quite feel like I can give them all of the answers, but with a tablet- we can find the answer together.
2) There is an increase in motivation and self-esteem. I hand the iPad to my special education students and they feel empowered. They are able to lead the class in a reading by pressing the appropriate buttons to listen to the story. My favorite part of technology is fast results. Students take weekly reading tests online and the second they press submit, they are able to see their answers, the correct answers, and rationales for why that is the correct answer. It is a brilliant way to help students create goals and reflect on their learning.
3) Students are receiving technical skills: how to work a computer, microsoft offices, etc. When an alarm pops up on their screen and they have to click yes or no, it is a learning opportunity! Although the technology will most likely change when they are in the work force, they will have a background to become quick learners of the new technology.
4) Students are collaborating with each other whether it is solving a problem together using the iPad or helping another student get to a website because they are unfamiliar. Students love to be the teachers in the classroom. They are able to switch roles and help rather than sit back and learn.
5) Students are becoming more aware of the audience that will see their work. Instead of solving a math problem on a piece of paper quickly, they plan out how they are solving it on the iPad because the video will go up on our classroom website and they will be able to... again... be the teacher! When I use the app Educreations, my students try to solve problems and explain them in a way so that if there was a second grader trying to learn what we were doing it- they could!
There were a few other points in this article, but these 5 were the ones that really pulled me into thought.
-Emily Wiebeck
http://www2.ed.gov/pubs/EdReformStudies/EdTech/effectsstudents.html
Thursday, January 23, 2014
High school learns to love students' tech habits
High school learns to love students' tech habits
Mimi Shirley
http://www.cnn.com/2013/05/31/tech/innovation/new-tech-high-school/
This article by Heather Kelly talks about the success a technology-based public high school in California. It sounds like the school is having the ideal experience. The staff, students and community as a whole has taken to the idea of this technology based curriculum.
The school has the support form the parents at home. For parent't who aren't technologically savvy the new curriculum provides the opportunity for parents to have more interaction with their children by being walked through step-by-step by their child. Which in turn is a good lesson for the students. By being able to walk their parents through assignments shows that they are familiar with and are able to use the new technology as well as the subject material.
Besides the technological and content material, students are also building trust and learning responsibility. Whether it is caring for the supplies or just using the open web, students at The New Technology School at Napa are being careful with this heavy trust program. The school believes in "teaching responsibility" as opposed to battling it. They rely on trust and feel that unrestricted web access (without filters) is a privilege.
A lot of the classes are found on cloud. Students no longer have to rely on school issued equipment, but can bring their own. There are some challenges, but overall their program seems to be running well. I think this is fantastic and convenient but slightly unrealistic. It would be fantastic if all of our students had the access to technology throughout their education much like the Napa students. Hopefully one day we'll get there. It will be interesting to see the differences between a technology-based education and a more traditional education where technology is used in moderation. It makes me wonder, though technology-based students may have the upper hand when it comes to new technology, if the organizational, social and skills without autocorrect will be noticeably different to the traditional student. I would be interested in some statistics.
Technology is always changing and with that, so is education. Will students catching up on the latest and ever-changing technology be left needing to catch up in life offline?
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