Productivity Tools

Productivity tools in the classroom are essential. Most schools are equipped with Smartboards, which is a great tool for teaching. We have learned in Technology class this summer about the many tools that are available today to enhance any classroom. It is impossible for a school to have all the productivity tools that are available, but most have the internet, smartboards,power point and laptops. These new advances not only keep our children interested, but will even get them excited about learning. Students can get very creative when equipped with new technologies to learn with. This kind of learning also adresses different learning styles. As teachers we know that each child learns different. With all the advancement in technology we can find a method that will reach each student.

I think the professional development is a continous ongoing process for teachers. As technology is in a cotinous state of change, teachers are expected to stay on top of these changes. Most districts have a Professional Development Committee. This committee is responsible for finding the most helpful and most needed resources availabe. The lines of communication between the committee,teachers and administration is of great importance. Teachers must voice what is needed for their classroom to make it work effecient, and administrators must be open to accomodate those needs. The drawback to all this is the time. Teachers are expected to teach our children with the most updated technology available, know how to operate all the new equipment, make preparations for his/her class while at the training sessions. Then we get back to our classrooms and start the task of getting our students back of track. I don't mean to sound negative, but alot is expected of a teacher. We have alot on our plate. I feel with all that is expected, district should take a closer look at how they are going to keep their teachers up to date.

Energing Technologies

Our schools are going through some tough times right now. Most school districts have been affected by all the financial cut backs. Money that is available should be spent very wisely. I don't think our students should be denied the new technologies that are available because of lack of funds. Student learn better with technology in the classroom. They are more engaged in learning, and even at risk students stay on task and are more excited about learning when they can use up to date technology. Based on the demonstrations of all the available devices in emerging technologies we seen last week in class, I think all of them would be an educational asset in the classroom. I feel the teachers that will be using these devises should have some input to which ones will be purchased for their rooms, after all they will be the ones using them along with the students. As for being on the "cutting edge", I think it is a good thing for all grades. I think I would be in favor of being an early adopter. We live in a technological society, our lives depend on these new technologies. If we want to prepare our students for the future we have to adapt to new ways of doings things.

Multimedia

What are the benefits of using multimedia in the classroom? Are there any drawbacks/problems with using multimedia? What are some specific ways you might use multimedia in your classroom?

The use of multimedia in the classroom is as commom to students as having a desk. They are probably more up to date on the use of all the multimedia tools than teachers. To deprive out students of their use would be a terrible injustice. Our world depends on the capabilities of multimedia. I feel as teachers we need to keep our students current on what is available to them. One of the main problelms is the cost of getting the multimedia tools into our classrooms, and the dollars it takes to keep our teachers trained with all the new and changing technology. Another drawback are the limitations some students suffer because of not having access to the multimedia at home. I do not feel teachers should require homework that involves their use at home. I think to be fair, students should be allotted time in the classroom to do their assignments. I plan to use multimedia in my classroom. Students enjoy doing research on the internet, using powerpoints, graphing and making charts. These experiences in our classrooms will make a better prepared student for the future.

What are the advantages of using the Internet in our classrooms? In what ways might it be used? Are there any concerns or problems with using the Internet? How can these problems be overcome?

The Internet is a great source of information. Researching a certain subject not only gives the student tons of information, but teaches them how to manuever on the internet and filter the important facts that are needed.
Students should be monitored while surfing the internet. Students will be more apt to wonder off task if not monitored. When students are aware of being watched it solves alot of problems.

Blogs in School

Can blogs be beneficial in an elementary/middle/high school setting? How are they being used in these settings? Do you see any problems or concerns with using them in any of these settings? What do schools need to be concerned about? What might parents be concerned about? If the school you work in will allow it, will you use or consider using blogs with your students?

I can see using blogs in high school might be beneficial. I think it would take alot of time and monitoring by the teacher to make it work and be kept clean. I don't think blogs should be used in elementary or middle school. I feel students at this age are not old enough to take on the this kind of responsibility.

High school students could use this as a way of journal writing, again with close monitoring by the teacher.

I feel students of all ages are more proned to say something malicious or cruel if they are not face to face with another person. They do not feel accountable for their actions or words. This should be a concern of all schools using blogs as well as the security of the students. I think this would be the main concerns of parents also.

I hope to teach elementary so I don't think I will use blogs in my classroom. The concerns stated above are serious,and can have devasting affects on students. I think it is an extra worry that can be excluded by not using them. I do not want to be closed minded about it, I can change my mind if it is proven to be effective and useful. Our school doesn't allow the use of blogging, so right know it's not an option.

Behaviorist Theory

I believe the Behaviorist Theory fits the human development best. I think we are conditioned from the earliest stages in life that molds our behavior. Even as adults we are conditioned to perform or not to perform an action in order to get a positive response. Students want to be praised and accepted by their teachers and peers. We show them our approval by our response to their actions. This conditions students to behave in an acceptable manner. Students as well as adults function better when we have routine, stability and acceptance in our lives. This repitition and stability in our lives makes us feel secure. Therefore we are conditioned to reinforce this behavior that satisfies our need for consistency and acceptance.