T.e.c.h.n.o.l.o.g.y

The role of technology in creating dynamic experiences for my students is simply to expand their knowledge of what technology is and how to use it. Also, to let them have access to the necessary tools that are used by the rest of the world. Technology or the use of technology is growing more and more each day. In fact, I am more technologically-literate than my parents and even some of my older peers. By giving my students the opportunity to learn and grow with these fun tools my classroom will never be boring. As we've learned in this class, there are many different exciting ways to conquer the curriculum. Using creativity and imagination, the teacher as well as the student can learn, grow and develop through technology.

Because technology is so fascinating, it can actually detract from students learning. For instance, having computers in the classroom for a specific project or assignment is exciting for the students. But not being able to monitor if they are all on task, doing what they should be doing can be rather challenging. The internet has an infinite number of alternative options, so unless the children are under strict supervision they may abuse their privileges.

Some examples of technology that I have used and enjoyed in different projects or presentations is the computer including programs such as powerpoint, iMovie, and google earth. I also really enjoyed being "forced" to take the TSA tests. Although they took time to remember, I really enjoyed brushing up on xcel, powerpoint, word, as well as basic internet searching. These are basic skills that I need in order to build upon my previous knowledge. I guess you could say they are a good foundation for technology.

Virtual Field Trip

Lesson Plan: Virtual Tour

This was our outline before we made the field trip.

http://docs.google.com/View?id=dctrcq2m_4gvzr72df

Pros and cons

This assignment was very fun to learn how Google Earth works. However in order for this to be effective in a classroom it would require a lot of time and energy to explain how it works and what exactly I wanted them to do with it and get out of it. Technology is amazing and should be used as often as possible but when using it we need to realize that some are more tech-savy than others and therefore it requires a lot of working with individuals one on one. Teaching is all about attending the individual but we need to spend our time teaching curriculum and necessary knowledge first. Once they have mastered the basics we can teach them how to use these gifts of technology. But i will say, I am all about teaching in a positive fun atmosphere so by incorporating Google Earth will definitely make the assignment more interesting and exciting.

G o o g l e E a r t h

Google Earth is fascinating. Who woulda thought we would be able to have a program where we can travel the world while staying in the comfort of our own home? You can look up any place in the world and see what it looks like in real life. This tool can be very useful and extremely exciting to use in the classroom. We can learn the tool by having the students look up familiar places such as the school or make it more personal and let them search for their homes. As far as class assignments go, we can use Google Earth to make our project come to life. For example, in my group Google Earth assignment, we chose the topic of the Civil War. We can go visit the actual site where the main events took place and have corresponding activities. With this project we can keep the students interested while teaching the importance of history and what took place, without boring them too much with the standard text book. Although the text book is valuable and necessary, adding the amazing program of Google Earth with only enhance the lesson and increase participation.