I was prompted to read an article titled "Survey reveals gaps in school technology perceptions."
I truly believe we are teaching the "screen generation." This generation has been exposed to so many technology screens: TV's, Computers, Ipod, Nitendo, etc. The way this generation learns and views materials and resources are completely different from all other generations. They live and breathe with the screen.
As an educator, it is our job to speak their language. We much reach our students by the means of which they communicate. We can't rely on old school practices anymore. We need to immerse ourselves into technology and constantly challenge ourselves to keep up with the ever changing technology.
My fear as a classroom teacher relates to the article's "Fear Factor." I'm scared of liability issues and keeping the technology safe for my students and our classroom. I don't want to lose my job or reputation because of a technology blopper. I also fear that as much as districts stress technology use, we are unable to keep up with the funds. There aren't enough computers for every student... Unless our students have their own individual laptop and constant access to the internet, are we being fair to all students?
Julia,
ReplyDeleteI completely agree with your "screen generation" comment. Today's students have so much technology at their fingertips. My only fear regarding this is that we are raising up a generation of people who will not be able to communicate with each other. Tech skills are very important, but so are life skills and people skills. I firmly believe that technology should be used in the classroom, but not as a means to an end. Traditional ways still have their purpose. Hook students with technology; get them involved in what they see and do on a daily basis, but don't forget to teach the whole student to be well-rounded.