Reading Articles about how classrooms CAN change are exciting and often trigger that passion for teaching that I felt the day I got my certification in the mail. There are countless possibilities when teachers add technology to the classrooms, even more when we add that technology component to the homes where are students reside. To bring the classroom into the homes of students has 2 sides, as a teacher, I realize there may be a decreased need when it comes to teacher employment or that the role of teacher will drastically change. The other aspect is the ability to create a global classroom some day down the road. Students could be taking courses and collaborating with students across the road or across the world. What an amazing opportunity to learn about the world than to share your learning experiences with a variety of cultures? Or what could we do if there was an epidemic..H1N1 anyone? Could instruction still happen from living-rooms across the town?
There are so many directions we could go, and are beginning to go including digital texts. The explosion of the Kindle and Nook devices were evident this past holiday season, as everyone I know, including myself got an e-reader of some variety. What shocked me was that I could not find a single required text available on my Kindle! How great would college be if I could use my handy e-reader to highlight and take notes that were all contained to my one device? Thinking of these devices in elementary or high school classes has me considering the tablets that include internet, students could research, blog, view media and read their texts on a device that can go from home to school and year to year. What baffles me is the fact that we have the technology and are not using it to it's greatest potential in our classrooms.
I agree it is scary to think about the potential of online education replacing the Need for classroom teachers. However, I believe there will always be a large population of individuals who still NEED that classroom experience. Still, you are right; the idea of connecting all of what technology has to offer closer to the curriculum can only benefit the teachers and the students. I don’t have a Kindle yet, but I was surprised that you mention there isn’t access to instructional text. That sounds like an idea waiting to be implemented!!!
ReplyDeleteCompletely agree. Even though many people may think technology is "taking over" the classroom. I think there is a clear need for the classroom experience. A balance is necessary which I think many times people forget.
DeleteI haven't taken the plunge and bought a new handheld device yet. I'm not sure which one would be best--Ipad? Kindle? Nook? My kids both have Nintendo DS systems and asked for Ipads for Christmas. It seemed like a big expense that I wasn't sure they'd get a lot of use out of right away. I also don't want them to only focus on reading e-books. We all went to a New Years' Eve party and every child there (except mine) had Ipads. I feel like my kids are missing out, but I'm still not 100% convinced I should run out and get them one.
ReplyDeleteLisa, I was sceptical about my Kindle at first, as I had always said I would rather have a book in my hand. But I got one for Christmas that was not on my list and I love it. I wouldn't get any kind of tablet for your kids until you play around with them youself and find out what kind of positive, engaging things they would be able to get from it.
DeleteBrianna, reading your blog reminded me of one of the readings we had for class. Creating a digital classroom can eliminate the growing drop out rate. Imagine eliminating dropouts because students can access a classroom from a computer or hand-held device.
ReplyDeleteI have an Ipad through work that I use but also have a Nook. I love both of them but I find myself using the features on my Iphone more. I use it for everything. Calendar, music, email, ect. There are some many opportunities out now!
ReplyDelete