Hello everyone!
This is my first blog. To be honest, this does feel a bit weird in the sense that I am typing a journal/diary that is accessible for anyone to read. However at the same time, this is quite exciting.
I have always been fascinated by technology; mostly because in my life time I’ve seen society’s use of technology drastically increase. In elementary school I remember doing handwriting assignments, and as I progress through my academic career, I experienced the shift to the digital world. This came in a variety of ways from the use of the Internet to research material, to using computers in presentations, being part of on-line discussion boards, and so on.
The use of technology in education is controversial topic. On one side of the equation it allows students to learn in a fun and exploratory environment where many concepts can be reinforced. On the other side it raises the issues of cyber bullying, the actuality of truly enhancing every student’s learning ability, and increasing the disparity with low-income households/schools compared to the norm.
How can we be sure that students are actually learning and not playing on the computer? I guess it depends on the grade level and subject content.
During teacher’s college one of my classes volunteered at a nearby elementary school. Students at this school came from low income level households. The school had a small computer lab and its educational software was quite limited. In contrast, at the same time I was also volunteering at an elementary school in which students came from high income level households. This school was quite rich in terms of resources and technology. I remember a Grade 2 student at this school brought in her own Barbie laptop computer for show and tell. What was even more remarkable was her twin sister had a matching laptop. Surely these students have a competitive advantage against other students, and the gap between the low-income households/schools against the norm widened.
I think technology in the classroom would be good if every child has access to the same technology tools at home, at well as at school.
Michael
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Hi Michael,
With regard to your wondering about how to keep students focused and avoid their inclination to play around while on the computer, I think it is necessary to watch over them, while they are in school, and make sure they're using the blog page instead of surfing around. In addition, one could limit their access to additional programs (games) on the computer, by restricting such areas with password, or taking them off of the computer. As for monitoring at home, the blog itself should take care of that. Students will have to post in their blog and keep it up-to-date to earn their marks. If the work isn't being done, this will surely reflect in the quantity and quality of work that is displayed in their blog. How do these ideas sound as a start?
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