Kindergarten Class 2011-2012

Friday, July 27, 2012

Blog #5


       The most relevant part of Dr. Robert’s presentation for me was simply the overall premise of how impacted our youth is, and even us, by technology. Something that still resonates with me is the concept of Media Multi-tasking. This is something I have done for years and never realized the impact this had on me. There are so many different types of technologies that exist; sometimes it is hard to keep up. After listening to the findings obtained from his studies, I found myself feeling the need for a balance of technology. Understanding that this is the way the world is moving, it is still important to not over rely on the use of technology in the classroom. As evident from the study, students in this era are getting plenty of exposure to different types of technologies. I also agree with the notion that we as teachers should reinforce positive technology etiquette but ultimately I believe this should be left to parents. I really appreciated Dr. Roberts’ command of the subject, it was evident how much his studies and this topic means to him.
    I am wondering what the data would show if this study was conducted in the present day? Is there a way in which we can get the public to separate from their devices to “get back to basics”, at least for the sake of education?

     In reading the New York Times article, there were a few positives pointed out that I can understand the reasoning behind. For example, offering make up courses to students who fail a course (or other circumstances), and in some places offer more elective classes. However, I find it hard to believe that online classes, at the K-12 level, can take the place of actual class time. Although administrators in Memphis say online classes are a way to “enhance student learning”, I do not believe a computer screen can enhance the knowledge of a student who is in remediation and using online courses as a means to obtain “credit recovery”. Those students, who fail a course, especially, should have to meet in person to truly help them understand the material. Additionally, online classes seem to be another fad in saving money. In essence cutting corners because there is not enough funding. It is an injustice to students to cut corners in education, as is evident in many of our prior readings. In my particular school community, I cannot see this type of learning occurring in regards to remediation but for elective purpose this would be useful for an after school enrichment. It would be extremely beneficial for the students at Northern Light School to participate in something of this nature in order to bridge any gaps in learning. In my own teaching, using online classes can provide students extra support and bridge activities during the summer months. It is also important to note this could be used to accommodate learners who need more of a challenge.

            1. http://mrholshoe.com/Teachers.html
·      This website is multi-faceted and I cannot wait to use this in my classroom. The resources are organized in an easy to use fashion and make this site exciting every click of the mouse.
·      This particular website was extremely relevant in the fact that they offer resources in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These are all fields of study that can use additional positive promotion. This website is interesting and eye catching, with LOTS of resources to use.
            3. http://quizlet.com/
·      Often I have the students make flashcards in class. This website is useful in the sense that students can have a means to make flashcards at home, with a parent (if they are not old enough), a potential homework activity. I also liked how user-friendly this website is, another motivator to get students and parents into making their own flashcards at home.
            4. http://rubistar.4teachers.org/
·      I used this website in the credential program and forgot how useful it can be. Rediscovering this useful site will be important to restructuring the assessment process in my class this year. The way in which this site is organized makes it easy to navigate, which is essential in an online resource.

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