1-TechInClassrooms

Computers are an essential asset to the educational experience because of the world that students will be working in. Even now most jobs require some kind of technological literacy. Not knowing how to properly use a computer could hold an individual back from being employed. Most of the students earning an education are digital natives, therefore not knowing how to operate a computer can significantly impair one from competing in the work force. Almost all teachers have a computer in their classroom to use for many tasks. These tasks include recording attendance and grades, preparing lessons and presentations, and sending e-mails to parents or administrators. Critical concerns for teachers using technology includes funding for technological devices and having enough time to use these resources. I agree that funding for the materials needed can be difficult for some schools. However, I believe that the effects technology in classrooms can have on one’s education is beyond worth the financial investment. Time can be an issue in the beginning but once the teacher and students are adjusted to it, there will actually be more time available in the school day. Bringing technology into a school that does not necessarily accept its use can also be an issue. I agree that this issue can be a huge one at first. However, once other employees learn the positive effects of technology it will make the entire school process run smoother.

Almost all of the ISTE standards “gladdened my heart”, but the main one was “Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making”. I think that research is an important part of education, especially in preparing students for college. Critical thinking is when actual learning takes place. Rather than memorizing definitions or answers for a test, challenging a student to think critically about a topic helps them understand and remember the content. The ISTE standard that seems outside my current skill set is “Design and develop digital age learning experiences and assessments.” Because I am not comfortable using many programs, I would have a difficult time implementing these tools in a classroom.

I really like the terms “digital native” and “digital immigrant”. I agree that almost all of today’s youth have a clear understanding of how to use technology. For example, my parents are constantly asking me how to check certain alerts on their phones or on the Internet. Whereas, my 7 year old dance students know how to operate smartphones and laptops almost as good as they know how to walk and talk. One semester I had a professor who had a lot of challenges with technology. It seemed as though every day she would not be able to play the video she had planned to show us for the lesson. As a digital native, this was a little frustrating because it was such a simple task for me. It was hard to understand why she had so many problems with technology. I think the main impact it has had on my learning experience is the amount of time wasted on a teacher’s challenges with using technology. I anticipate a slight difference between me and my future students and our use of technology. Although I do not anticipate as big a difference as I had with my teachers. But technology is ever changing so I will be required to adapt to all of these changes if I want to be the most effective teacher.