Chapter 7 Reflection

I realized even more so as I read this chapter how technology is such an integral part of students’ lives in and out of school. Teaching and learning and technology really do go hand-in-hand – socially and academically. The book said that kids were exposed to technology about 8.5 hours a day, and I think that number is probably increasing all the time. It amazes me how much students know about things like text messaging, iPods, etc. Many of my dance students, who are 7 and 8 years old, have their own cell phones and other gadgets. Today, one of my 5-year-old students even told me how she liked to play Wii bowling! Back when I was a kid, we would have just gone to the bowling alley or talked on our house phones. It amazes me how things have changed. This chapter basically served to explain to me even more ways that teachers can incorporate students’ use of technology into their education. The book states that, “technologies of various kinds can serve as bridges between school and students’ outside experiences if they are used in the right way within a supportive context” (p. 153). I wholeheartedly agree with this statement. It is our job to teach students how to make better use of the internet especially so that it becomes as asset rather than a distraction.

I think as a teacher, it is absolutely necessary to explain to students about the dangers of chat rooms and other online communication tools. Many young students are not aware of the fact that these types of technology can be dangerous. I think that students often do not realize how technology can take away from face-to-face interaction as well, so I think that we as teachers should model this. For example, texting during class when we should be talking with students would not be the best idea. However, things like computer conferencing over Skype would be a great way to communicate with parents if they cannot meet face to face. Also, we have used tools like threads and discussion boards for our education classes, and I find that they lead to more in-depth discussion. This is something I may use in my classroom to help those students who are shy or non-native speakers and also to make my students think on a deeper level because they have a chance to think about their response more before they make them. As the teacher, I could serve as a discussion moderator and hopefully lead students to develop more critical thinking skills. Additionally, the book said that this helps with the time constraints in schools, and I certainly agree. I also think that students should be encouraged to use cell phones, Skype, or Facebook chat-type programs to discuss homework or other assignments (depending on their age). I have found this to be so helpful to my own education. The only drawback is that it would require students to have internet and video capability, which they may not. Last, I think that I would love to incorporate videoconferencing into the classroom. Students would be able to have guest speakers without them having to make the trip that in the past would have prevented them from coming. I would even have students create and listen to podcasts.