I feel that technology is, and should be, an important learning tool in today’s schools. Kids are exposed to so much technology from the time they are born that it is second nature to them. I think that kids are more comfortable using a computer than a text book and that they are better able to relax and learn from sources they are comfortable with. I think that technology can be appropriately integrated into most things done at school. Technology can be a huge asset for science; kids can use the internet to research plants, animals, planets, or even technology. Websites like Google Earth would be great for geography.. I would be careful using technology in spelling. A tool that has automatic spell check may not help a lot. I would also make sure to keep some paper and pencil math. I think that physically writing and doing math helps a person’s brain to develop necessary problem solving skills.
I would definitely label myself a digital immigrant. I usually need to be explicitly told how to do new technological things. A native can, and usually prefers, to figure things out on their own. My students are almost guaranteed to be natives. Most people I know that are in elementary right now know how to use a lot more technology than me and know how to use it better. I am definitely feeling intimidated by the coming task of keeping digital native students engaged and learning through technology.
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4 comments:
I liked the point you brought up about spelling tests and spell check options. There are so many different ways that kids could cheat with technology. One way is texting during a test asking for the answers from someone who has the textbook for the class. A few years ago these things weren't even an option. Now we have to be aware of all the latest technology and the ways kids might use them to cheat.
I also agree that students should do math with a paper and pencil for the most part. However something like memorizing times tables could be made more fun by using games on the computer.
I agree with you! While technology is important, I think that as teachers we should utilize both methods. I don't think that always using technology is the answer, instead we should use it as support in our lessons. Children all learn differently and we need to remember those students that don't have daily access to technology in their homes because they probably learn differently. We always need to keep in mind that everyone doesn't learn things in the same way or style.
I agree. Students can use technology in so many ways. I did not think about it hindering them in spelling, but that is most definately true. That probably wouldn't help them out a lot.
Hi guys...
Came across your blogs via the link to my video and have been following your class as I am interested in how
Carol--I have to REALLY disagree with you...if a kid can easily "cheat" on a test using technology, perhaps it isn't the "technology" that is the problem perhaps we should be thinking more about the nature of the test. When you think about developing essential questions as a teacher, know this...of ALL of the question words....who, what, when, where, why, how...the ONLY ones that can't be "googled" for an answer are the ones that ask WHY...the ones that ask kids to explain, vs spit back info that can easily be done via their cell phones...
I have a 2nd grader of my own at home...he is a great reader, has a tremendous vocabulary and LOVES to write...he is a LOUSY speller...is that going to hinder him in a future where most things are done via typing?
Great dialogue
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