Blog Post 7

I believe any teacher will need to learn how to operate technology and be comfortable with using it as a teaching method. There are plenty of people who say that technology in the classroom is not a good idea, but after learning all of these facts, I completely disagree. 

The video Using iMovie and the Alabama Virtual Library in Kindergarten really opened my eyes to the progress children are making. It's crazy to think that kindergartners are using iMovie, a program most college students have a hard time using. My class, EDM 310, recently had a book trailer due and it was by far one of the toughest assignments so far. Dr. Strange mentioned that the kindergarteners should explain how they use iMovie, and I think that would be an awesome idea. Not only would it open up the college level students eyes, it would also encourage us to learn more and be more involved with technology. Another thing brought up in the video, was the Alabama Virtual Library. Not only is it a completely free resource, you can also choose from student resources or adult resources. It is also very easy to get one. You can either go to any Alabama public library, or access it online via geo-location.

In the video We All Become Learners, Michele Bennet states, "Everyone becomes a learner, and everyone becomes a teacher." Not only can we teach the children how to use certain apps or websites, they can also teach us since they can use these resources outside of school. She also brought up Padlet, an online dashboard you can discuss information on with other people simply by giving them the URL. In my class, we have used this website and I really enjoyed it. I feel as if it would make group projects easier for all ages. 

iPads in the Classroom was probably my favorite video assigned to us for this blog post. One of the teachers featured stated that the children get to "take a virtual field trip everyday." I have never thought of it like that and it really opened my eyes. Imagine you are studying a certain country. You can easily watch Youtube videos of the country, research the different cultures, and act as if you are there in person. Children can also use iPads for more than just games and research. If you are a kindergarten teacher you can get the children to spell words out on a magnetic alphabet app. If the child has a special need, they can use the iPad to speak for them. It also makes students more involved, because lets be honest, who doesn't love iPads? 

In Top 10 Reasons to Use Technology in Education: iPad, Tablet, Computer, Listening Centers, Sheryl Nussbuam-Beach said, "Teachers will not be replaced by technology, but teachers who don't use technology will be replaced by those who do." I think that is a very harsh, but true statement. It's the 21st century, this is what is expected of teachers in the United States and plenty more countries. There was also 10 reasons to use technology:

1. Students love it

2. It engages the four key components to learning- active engagement, participation in groups, frequent interaction and feedback, connection to real world groups.

3. Professional development- basic computing skills

4. Makes life easier for the teachers- tests online, lesson plans

5. Improves tests scores- works at their own pace and doesn't allow them to be held back because of other students

6. Helps students with low attention spans- ADD and ADHD students

7. Learn from the experts- can learn from the best teachers around the world 

8. Encourages homework- can take tests online and have the teacher for homework help

9. Saves money- initial investment but frees up the teacher because they have more teachers online

10. Removes obstacles- amplifying system