Technology is a benefit to students, increasing availability of information and resources that students have access to at home and school. The article “Speak Up” discusses this emerging trend, the three elements to the vision of increased technology in the classroom, and the data that was collected from surveys.
The three key elements mentioned in the article are social-based learning, un-tethered learning, and digitally-rich learning. Social-based learning incorporates student’s needs for instantaneous gratification through IM’s and texting as well as blogs, wikis, social networks, etc. Un-tethered learning expands the student’s experiences past the classroom with the help of cell phones, laptops, Smart Phones, etc. It allows students to access online information at all times extending the classroom from four walls to beyond. The last element is digitally-rich learning. This element includes educational games, simulations, and other multimedia outlets.
The article also discussed the data that was collected in 2009. The most surprising aspect of the surveys was the resistance from teachers to incorporate new technology in the classroom. Administrators and students showed much more interest in increasing technology in the classroom, though there was a difference in the types of technology.
The author of the article wants technology to be used more in the classroom and hopes that through the education of future teachers in teaching preparation programs, the technology available such as laptops, tablets, Smart Phones, MP3 players, social networking, and discussion boards will increase in prevalence. The author thinks that this will both improve the quality of the students education as well as the students desire to learn.
The data provided by the surveys is profound. More teachers need to utilize the mobile devices and online resources. It can only benefit the students. After reading the article, I think that technology will only increase in the classroom and new ways of teaching and enhancing students learning experiences will emerge and grow in popularity. I think online discussion boards and monitored blog postings can be beneficial for students in expressing views and opinions they may not normally in class. Also, the use of online textbooks would greatly reduce the amount of weight students carry each day with the added benefit of media through games, simulations, and additional resources that tie into the course material. Overall, technology is becoming increasingly advanced and it only fits to utilize in the classroom.
Hi Megan,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you when you say that online discussions can enhance participation in the class. I know some people aren't comfortable with expressing their opinions during class so they take advantage of the online discussions. I also believe that technology will continue to growth throughout the classroom. I think that students will benefit in some ways more than others. Good ideas!
Danielle
Megan,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you on some of the topics in the article that you found interesting, for instance the idea that teachers are uneasy about the idea of bringing more technology into the classroom. I can see both sides of the argument that teachers are uneasy with the idea that it will be used for personal use and take away from already limited instruction time. But I do think that a certain about would be okay if it is enhancing the students learning experience. It will be interesting to see what the changes bring to all the different levels of education and how much technology changes the way that we teach.