Blog Post #1
What influences teachers and students to use technology in the classroom?
I think that teachers are increasingly using technology in classrooms because the world is constantly evolving. If teachers and students are not using technology for education, it is harming them -- rather than helping them. Technology is something that we cannot avoid; it's happening all around us. If we, as teachers, utilize the technology that is being offered to us, we can better relate to our students and optimize their learning experiences.
ISTE
The International Society for Technology Education supports the use of technology for educational purposes in the classroom. Out of the standards provided for teachers: Learner, Leader, Citizen, Collaborator, Designer, Facilitator and Analyst, I am drawn to Citizen the most. The Citizen standard is defined by: "Educators inspire students to positively contribute to and responsibly participate in the digital world." As a teacher, I hope to help my students realize their voice can be heard in the world, especially on the digital platform. There are communities online that are for everyone, and the internet doesn't have to be a scary place.
Digital Native
I agree with the label of "digital native" for today's youth. We often see the younger generation able to manipulate technology at such a small age. A digital native is someone that is a "native speaker" of the digital language of computers, video games, and smart phones. For most of my time in high school, I noticed a gap between digital natives (the students) and digital immigrants (the teachers). It was interesting when the students had to assist the teachers in certain technology aspects, like getting the projector to work or troubleshooting our class websites. It didn't have much of an impact on my learning experience, I am used to the fact that digital immigrants need our help. When I am a teacher, I'm sure it will be the same issue, with the rise of technology and innovation, the younger generation will know even more than me.
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Yes Josh! I think that your take on the ISTE Standard of citizen is great!! Inspiring young people to be confident presenting their voice online and offline is the sign of a great educator. If students feel confident to share their opinions and ideas online, they can develop a network of support to help them achieve their goals. Keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteHi Josh! I agree with your view on the term digital native. I think we had similar experiences regarding the digital immigrants lack of competency in the classroom. I think that as long as we remain up-to-date with the new technology, we will be prepared for our own classroom.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting to think about the future generation of students knowing more than we know about technology when we have been the ones helping our teachers with it. One day we might be on the other side needing their help like they needed ours!
ReplyDeleteGreat Post! I also have seen a gap between students and teachers when it comes to technology. In many of my classes students will go up and help the teacher with the computer or the projector. Eventually us digital natives will be the experts with technology.
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