I can remember using computers in school from Kindergarden to now. My father even taught my first grade computer class. My experience with computers all through my educational carrer has brought me up to speed with any modern computer that I may work with. In college, I began taking notes on my laptop and quickly learned of the benefits. I can just write down any side thought during a lecture very quickly and still be able to pick up on any much needed information.
2) Tech Present
If all is successful, I want to teach a Fourth grade classroom. When I was in Fourth grade, the history of the California gold rush was my favorite subject. Experiencing this history through a textbook is just not the same. I would use Google Maps to show areas of mining and go to street view to show just exactly what the terrain and environment was like for a miner. Also, any kind of demonstration video on how a miner panned for gold would be a nice multimedia to have. Any one of those sources would of been worthwhile to me as a student. Technology has a come a long way since I was in Fourth grade and the resources available today can be very informative.
3) Tech Future
The scary thing about technology in the future is the cost. A new piece of equipment that can be so beneficial for a classroom may not be able to be purchased due to lack of funds. I think having equipment that is up to date with the norm is necessary. Also, trying to find a legitimate and educational technological source can be difficult on such a short schedule. Some form of approved sites or resource list would be a nice thing to have. It is hard to keep the attention of a child. That is why having valid and interesting sources is great for the classroom.
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Kevin - You are fortunate to come to college with such a rich background in technology. Your future students will most likely enter your classroom with a similar level of fluency. I agree that teaching history with the help of technology can greatly enhance the experience for students, and your ideas for incorporating Google Maps are excellent. As far as a list of approved sites...while there's nothing truly comprehensive (sites change/disappear too often for that), I suggest you visit one of Kathy Schrock's sites (http://school.discoveryeducation.com/schrockguide/) - she's one of the best-known ed tech leaders and has done a lot of work on this subject.
ReplyDeleteOn a personal note - the photo at the top of the blog is very sweet...do you come from a musical family?
I taught Music at the Boys and Girls Club in Cottage Grove this summer. I have failed to make it back since the program started again due to school. A co-worker of mine sent that picture to me. I really want to have a musically influenced classroom. I believe that comprehension and education through music can be very fulfilling and easy for a child to remember.
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