Chapter 3 Reflection

1. Why is it important to learn about different technology tools when they are constantly changing?

      I think it is important to stay up-to-date on all the new technology available in our schools because it is our job to make sure our students are 21st century learners. To be 21st century learners, our students need the access to these new technologies so that they can build on their knowledge and show proficiency using these tools. If we become lazy and decide that we do not have the time to learn about the newest technology that is available to us and our students, we are failing at giving our students the best education possible. Also, by the time they learn what a new technology is, they may have to use it in every day life, or in the future at a job.

2. Most desktop computers do the same things as mobile devices, so why do teachers need to use both?

      Mobile devices offer many more options than desktop computers. First of all, they can be taken outside the classroom. At my school, we have recently received a grant to have 12 raised garden beds for our students to learn about agriculture and where our food comes from. With iPads and laptops, we can record information outside, rather than having to go back and forth to the classroom. Mobile devices also make for easier collaboration between students. Students can easily carry an iPad or laptop with them to a group and work together that way, rather than having gather around a desktop computer with other groups trying to gather at the desktop right next to them.

3. How can the cost of digital devices be justified when the functions they perform are often limited in number and scope?

     As educators, I think we should have the mindset that education is priceless. If new technology is being used often in classrooms, then the cost should not matter. However, if teachers are not using the available resources, I can see how money would be wasted. Again, if we expect our students to be 21st century learners and workers, one day, we need to expose them to as much new technology as we can.

Morrison, G. R., ), G. R. M., & Lowther, D. L. (2010). Integrating computer technology into the classroom, skills for the 21st century. Allyn & Bacon.

Chapter 1 Reflections

1. Must I use a inquiry-based learning approach in my classroom to use computers as a tool?

      I do not think that I have to use an inquiry-based learning approach in my classroom just to use technology. I believe that computers and other technology resources, such as iPads, Smartboards, QR code readers, etc. can be used in many ways. For instance, at the end of the school year last year my first grade class created a project (with my help, of course!) about South Korea. They used internet search websites to find and cite their information, iPads to show their powerpoint presentation, and QR code readers to link parents to videos, etc. Luckily, technology is available in my school and I try my best to make sure my students are using it.

2. Can I still use tutorials and drill-and-practice software?

      I believe that I can still use these kinds of technologies when it is appropriate. For example, during our Language Arts centers, I still have students use a website that helps them learn their vocabulary words and quizzes them on it. This has been very beneficial to my students because there are just some things that they need to hear and see over and over again before it will stick with them. My students use those vocabulary words, now that I use the website, in their writing more than they ever did before. This shows me that they have truly learned something from the technology used.

3. Won't I have to spend a great deal of time to develop these units of instruction?

      It does take a lot of time to create a lesson that uses technology. However, I believe these lessons are always more fun for the students and are the lessons that keep them engaged in learning. Also, most technology lessons can be used again the next year, or for a different group of students, so you have the lesson forever! As long as the students are learning and having fun while they learn, I think any time spent is worth it.

4. Won't every student need a computer to use it as a tool?

      It would be wonderful for every student to have their own computer to access, however, that just isn't reality in most schools. Students need to learn how to collaborate and work together and there is no better way for them to do that than through project-based technology lessons. My classroom has five student computers, so obviously every student cannot use a computer at the same time. However, we do have access to a computer lab that has enough computers for every student, as well as iPads that can be checked out from our library and used in the classroom, as well. I think my students do a great job of sharing the available technology.

Morrison, G. R., ), G. R. M., & Lowther, D. L. (2010). Integrating computer technology into the classroom, skills for the 21st century. Allyn & Bacon.