I believe that education has been replete with various types of reforms, but I feel that true educational reform will not be possible without the inclusion of technology. As education moves into the 21st century it is paramount that students and educators be versatile with their understanding of computers and other technologies. For educators, it is a way to enhance their style of teaching by bringing in new methodologies that will engage student learning and participation. Furthermore, teachers should set the example for their students by staying current with the times. I agree with what the textbook mentioned how it is unacceptable to have a student "show how to cut and paste" in a word document or some other software. In other words, if we expect our students to continuously learn then teachers must as well. In my class, I have seen the benefits of utilizing technology in the class from creating jeopardy review games to having students work in groups to create a PowerPoint presentation. Technology is leading education today and teachers need to keep up or they will find themselves being passed over by their colleagues and students.
I have been using technology in my class consistently for the past 5 years. In fact, I have several projects that I assign throughout the year requiring students to use that require computer programs. I have had them use excel to create data sheets based on their science lab data, and then they have to analyze and explain the results. I also have them work in groups to create PowerPoint presentations, which even I have learned a couple of tricks from my students for future lectures that I create in PowerPoint. Also, I have implemented various technologies for science labs such as digital microscopes, Texas Instrument Calculators, and LCD projector for displaying videos off the internet. Finally, I have a webpage that I update weekly that shows the weekly lesson plans, homework assignments, and any announcements of upcoming events that I want parents to know, which is very useful. What I hope to gain in addition to my repertoire of technology tools is anything newer that I can utilize in the classroom. I have already learned about Jing, which I am practicing with in order to be more proficient with it. Furthermore, I know that I will learn new ways of doing something that has gotten old. I am interested in finding out more about podcasts, as well. How can I use them in the classroom? So, I am excited to see what things I will learn about in the coming months that will make my classroom an updated technologically saavy science classroom.
I am proud to say that I will be able to apply for my professional certification with FLDOE after this semester, and will be certified to teach science for grades 6 - 12, which I could not be happier. Teaching has been a wonderful experience and career, and I have seen the intangible benefits of making a difference in my students' education and lives. That is why I am looking forward to taking this course; to see what new things I can bring into my classroom to help teach, and inspire students to learn. I feel that my first day in this course has proven itself already since I created my first blog ever. This is a new area for me, and I believe in time, I will get better at using this tool in my classroom. So, I will look forward to learning new skills over this semester that I will be able to impart to my students.
Blog Journal #10 prompts
14 years ago
I love that you already look for so many ways to incorporate technology into your class, and see the importance of keeping up with the developments! Also, as I'm sure you know, it is probably encouraging for your students to be able to show you a thing or two, as long as you're teaching them, as well. This likely prevents any kind of disrespectful judgment on their part - It's cool to have a teacher who's good with computers!
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with you in the fact that teachers need to also continue their education as students continue to learn more and more about technology. I find more often than not that teachers are not as well versed in technology as their students, especially in a highschool setting. Kudos.
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