I know that many parents are concerned that technology in the classroom will not be a useful tool but will only cause distraction. It is true, technology can offer many distractions and be used for many inappropriate and harmful ways, but there are also so many ways that, if harnessed, technology can be used for the success of your child. The world is changing and in order to help your student prepare for the future, we must start now in giving them the skills to:
- organize spreadsheets
- create word processing documents
- create presentations
- and to equip the students with the knowledge to succeed in the world.
There are 4 different perspectives that are helping to define Educational Technology which are laying the framework for what we hope you will help us to accomplish.
#1 Media delivers more concrete and more effective ways of learning than books and lectures
#2 Human and non-human resources can be used to create an efficient system for addressing instructional need.
#3 Educational technology is used as vocational training
#4 Computers have the ability to aid instructional teaching
(Roblyer, 7)
Some of the amazing things we can do with technology these days are simply...amazing. For instance check out this link:
These whiteboards can connect directly to the computer. Lectures and any kind of writing done on the board can be downloaded to the computer and posted online where your students can upload the content! The whiteboard can also connect directly to the internet, which can be incorporated into a faster, more successful, interactive lecture. For example, there are many places online where you can find games that help learn anatomy and the body systems. This could be incredibly useful when it comes to helping to learn anatomy and how the body works.
Since this is a PE class, I want to teach the students the different heart rate zones and how those can be used for fitness. With heart rate moniters, all the students will be able to practice staying in zones and moving into others, thus creating an opportunity for a lifetime of fitness.
We, as teachers, know that there are many of you with questions and concerns about technology. This blog is open to your opinion and your comments. We welcome any feedback you give. All we ask is that you keep and open mind and consider getting involved in the future we are working to create for your child. Talk to you soon!
Reference
Roblyer, M. D., and Aaron H. Doering. Integrating Educational Technology into Teaching. 5th ed. 8-9 Boston: Allyn & Bacon, 2010. Print.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is an assignment for an educational technology course at National University. It is not a real fundraising blog.
