Blog Post #7

Classroom instruction is at a constant change due to technology. As someone who is still considered to be a recent high school graduate, class of 2012, I have noticed that there has been an increase in the technology in schools. As a current college student and future educator it is pivotal that I understand what technology is being used in the school systems, and do all that I can do to be able to implement it in my future classes.

We All Become Better Learners- I really enjoyed because it shows us that teachers can still be students as well. In the video Ms. Michele Bennett talks about how a student taught her about the camera on an iPad. Ms. Bennett was a student in that moment. This shows us that even teachers must still be willing to learn.

Using iMovie and the Alabama Virtual Library in Kindergarten - In this video it is said that kindergarten students are using iMovie to create book trailers on books that have also read. While my College level class just recently learned how to use the same technology. This is an indication that my generation of student is currently behind the up and coming one, as far as using technology in classes and how to use it properly. What really caught my attention was when Ms. Bennett mentioned that students where actually editing their own work. I found this fascinating because it shows that kindergarteners are able to find and correct their mistakes at an early age.

iPads in the Classroom- This video shows us that educators are taking advantage of new technologies in their schools. What really stood out to me in this video was what the narrator said. I believe he said something along the lines of "Teachers need to learn how to use the technology in todays classrooms, or the schools will find another teacher either willing to learn or one that already knows how." As shown in this video, teachers are certain using technology for more than showing videos and we as educators need to take advantage of that.

Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education: iPad, Tablet, Computer, Listening Centers-This video explains why we use technology in education. Here are the 10 reasons listed below.

1. Students Love It

2. Engages the 4 Key Components to Learning

3. Professional Development

4. Makes Life Easier For Teachers

5. Improves Test Scores

6. Helps Students With Low Attention Spans

7. Learn From the Experts

8. Encourages Completion of Homework

9. Saves Money

10. Removes Obstacles

 

The two that stood out to me were numbers 3 and 6. Professional development is extremely important, and I believe that it should be taught at an earl age so that is more natural when the students become older. In the professional world today businesses use all kinds of technology. So it would be very beneficial for students to learn and understand that as soon as possible. I also believe that it does indeed help students with low attention spans. As someone who has ADHD there are times that find myself day-dreaming or just find that my mind has wondered off. With certain learning activities such as recordings or computer games, it does help students with those disabilities understand materials.