Chapter 9 Reflection

Before reading this chapter, I had not considered the idea that the only output humans have for visual representation of ideas is mental images and dreams, and how this can be hard to share. Many of us are not skilled artists, like myself, so I like the idea of using digital cameras, phones, video production and video modeling with feedback. I had also never heard of interpretive and expressive tools. Interpretive seems to be great for explaining math concepts in a concrete fashion, whereas expressive visualization helps learners show their talents. As usual, I am realizing that technology can play a role in teaching and learning in even more ways. Technology can even be a form of allowing us to learn about ourselves, such as our strengths and weaknesses. For example, when I watch videos of myself in a dance performance, I can assess what I need to work on and get feedback from others. It is the best way to realize my weaknesses and strengths because I can actually see them. I am now convinced that virtually any type of technology can be incorporated into education.

As a future teacher, I am now open to having my students work with visualization programs more often. I could use geographic information systems to have them work on problem solving through real-life applications. I thought it was a great point that teachers “must be willing to let their students go” and that students need to understand there is not always one correct answer (p. 195). I have always struggled with tasks in which there are numerous ways to solve a problem because I was concerned that I was wrong. Therefore, I believe that using programs such as this could teach my students otherwise. This is something that would have likely helped me. I also believe that solving model real-world problems is extremely important. Related to this, I now think that I would use programs like Google Earth in the classroom in combination with SketchUp. I will definitely use other programs as well, such as TableTop. In MAE we read about the importance of students being able to collect, visually represent, and analyze data. Visualization is critical because it can really help learners (especially visual!) by allowing them to see abstract concepts in a concrete fashion. TableTop seems great because it allows students to predict and infer as well, and in SCE this semester, we learned that these are important skills for science. Also, I would have my older elementary students make digital documentaries and stories. I believe it is important for them to examine various issues in their worlds, as well as learn to cooperate and give feedback to others. Personal documentaries would be an enjoyable and engaging project as well because students would enjoy sharing with their classmates. I would like to do this at the beginning of the year to help the students become acquainted. If I teach primary grades, however, I am not sure how possible this would be. I do believe that they could create short movies, but it would require a lot of parents and teacher help. I would be interesting in doing some research on how to create videos and iMovies with young children.