Taking a class based on technology in the classroom has really opened my eyes to a whole new world all while causing me a great amount of stress. How am I supposed to use these excellent tools in the classroom when I can't stand them myself? How am I supposed to encourage my students to use these tools in the classroom when I think they cause more of a headache then they are a help?
This weeks topic was digital books. We were assigned to articles, both of which I found very dry and not helpful in understanding what exactly we were supposed to get out of using digital books in our classroom. To me they covered just as many faults with these tools as they did positive attributes of this new technology available to us. After reading these two articles I still feel lost and confused about the reason why we would use these in our classroom when we can't always depend on technology.
I feel that in two years, when I am actually running the show in my own classroom, there will be completely different technology, even better technology available that will help my students.
Sorry you feel so frustrated with the technology. Maybe spending some time with tutorials and asking some questions will be helpful. I think, however, that using the tools is just a part of the teaching--and one that we hope to help you understand better. The tools aren't going to get easier--they may in fact get more sophisticated. Understanding now will only help your understanding in the future! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI definitely think that forcing people to do things such as using technology is wrong because it’s one of those things in life that may not be for everyone. With that, I definitely think it’s possible to create a classroom which is just as effective, if not better in some cases, than one which utilizes technology. At the same time, I agree with Sara that it would be a good idea to become comfortable using it now if you think you might want to use it in the future. Technology EVOLVES which means that the newest development, however unique it may be, is merely a modified version of older tools. There’s also the argument that technology is/will become so integral in our lives that using it will be as crucial as being literate.
ReplyDeleteI have also felt feelings due to the reasons described in your last paragraph. Sometimes I think, “What is the point in learning this now when it’s just going to change in a year?” or “What is the point in buying this now when there will be a better one coming out in a year?” Then, I realized that the problem with this is that if I’m constantly acting on these thoughts, then I will NEVER have or learn new things and all because of my fear of change. My other point that goes along with this is that I have heard it is good for the elasticity of our brains to be constantly trying new things. In other words, you can put off old age dementia longer if your brain is adapting. Use it or lose it!