Week 13 Part 2: Meaningful Learning with Technology

Since technology has come to take the forefront of our society, finding ways to integrate this into the classroom is a necessity. The two we have talked about in this class are clickers and Kidspiration. Clickers have become a common phenomena as it allows for the involvement of every student, not just the outgoing or most outspoken. The clicker also allows the teacher to have insight on where each child lies regarding certain material. For example, I observed an 8th grade math class last semester and the children used clickers for TAKS practice. The teacher was able to view what percentage each answer received, and so if a large portion of the class missed any given question, then she would stop and further explain the reasoning behind that answer. Kidspiration uses thinking and provides a visual space where students can learn. It provides a combination of pictures, texts, numbers, and spoken words to develop comprehension and critical thinking skills. This builds up a childs conceptual understanding in all subjects.

Taking this course has been beneficial and will definitely have a positive impact on my future classroom. I have never been very technological saavy, only just recently completely figuring out how to decipher Itunes. Taking ETEC has enlightened me on the importance of using digital tools to engage children in daily educational activities. Prior, I had always figured I would use computers or the popular smart boards that so many teachers are now using. However, this class has opened my eyes to a variety of tools that will expand the student knowledge. Creating my own blog and website along with researching several Web 2.0 tools has expanded my horizon, and hopefully will translate to my classroom. I now have learned enough and have been given the opportunity to experience with web 2.0, that I now have a built confidence that will surely engage children. Children have to be engaged, and the only way is with TECHNOLOGY and digital tools that our society and environment around us clearly sports. In the past the thought of taking a class such as BCIS or ETEC has posed as threatening, but now I can prouldly say BRING IT ON!! Afterall, technology spices up the classroom and objectives being taught. This brings about fun ways of learning where children don't feel forced to learn. rather they now want to learn. If nothing else I yearn to make students enjoy learning to the point where school is no longer viewed as dreadful, but exciting or motivating.