To begin, I do not think a teacher should feel obligated to integrate technology into the classroom. I did agree with Prensky that perhaps it is time for "digital immigrants" to stop grousing, as he called it, and "just do it". Perhaps it is because I was born in this digital age that I feel technology, when used correctly, can truly supplement and advance instruction, but the internet is definitely a great way to access information; it is immediate compared to the previous way of obtaining information (step by step). After reading Prensky's article, I first thought that the decision to use computers in the classroom should be partly based on the subject being taught; however, I tried to think of one course that today would not require the use of computers, and the only course I could think of was perhaps a Chemistry or Biology course, where many experiments are done right in the classroom; in this setting, computers may not be absolutely needed. English teachers do not necessarily need to bring computers into the classroom, but once the time comes to write a paper, the students will need to know how to use some type of program like Microsoft Word. They will also either need to know how to use e-mail (to e-mail the paper to the teacher) or how to print the paper. A History teacher also does not necessarily need to bring technology into the classroom, but when it comes time to writing a research paper, the students will most likely want to use a computer to find information in an online database such as JStor. Because I will be teaching German, I will most likely reference YouTube and online German-English dictionaries to supplement my instruction. There are obviously ways around using technology, but I do not see any benefit from moving backwards.
In regards to the "Transparent Integration" presentation, I think that Jim being skeptical was a good thing. In the presentation it was said that a teacher should always ask him/herself if it is truly worth it to take the time to learn a software or hardware, or if it will waste more time than save time in the long run. I don't think that learning technology should be the number one focus in the classroom - not by a long shot. The only reason, in my opinion, to take time to learn a software or hardware is if it will add to or supplement the content of the course. It should not take away from the focus of the content being taught. In some of my experience in college, when I had to learn how to use a new software, often times the software would not work properly, I would lose work, or it would simply just be so annoying to use that I did not see the point of using the software.
All in all, if taking time to learn how to use a software will truly benefit the students and supplement the curriculum rather than take away from the course content, I would be all for it.
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It is very true that almost every subject uses computers in one way or another. It may not be directly within the lesson plan, but outside computer usage is almost a guarantee when it comes to homework and research in today's digital age. I agree that the technology should be used as a helping tool in education, but there is also a time when computer-usage should be taught, as a student must know how to handle at least the basics of a computer to succeed with homework in college and life outside of school.
ReplyDeleteI found what you said to be very interesting. After reading that you will be teaching German, I thought back to my experience in my French class. Did you have the experience of working in a language lab during middle school or high school? If so, do you think that was a beneficial use of technology and something you would incorporate in your future classroom?
ReplyDeleteFrom my experience, I felt that technology really enhanced my understanding of French. The program allowed me to hear myself and helped me critique my accent and speaking skills.
I am hoping to become an English teacher and I agree with the part about Microsoft word. I believe I would be lost without it but on the other hand you made me reflect upon times before Microsoft and the importance of calligraphy. When I teach English, I hope to find a balance between the two.
I agree with you that technology should not be in the classroom just to be in the classroom. It is important that the computing technology has an important place in the lesson. It is also imporatnt that the lesson would not be as beneficial without the computer, so that is why you are going to use the computer in the classroom for the lesson. I think it was also important that you said not to move away from technology. It is important to move forward and teach to the new technologies and future.
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