Computers are an important part of the educational experience because they are forming the way our society lives. For example, I am experiencing computer problems which are hindering me from posting this blog in a timely manner. Teachers who have been teaching for 10+ years don't understand the online tools that are readily available. They might recognize that they can use these tools but they don't understand how to use them. I agree that teachers need to be educated on our technological advances so they can utilize them in the classroom and give their students a well rounded experience. Just like how we need to keep our lessons up to date on current events, we need to keep our teachers up to date on current ways to teach students.
In my classroom, I will use computers to take attendance, grade papers, support my lectures, and enhance my lesson plans. In this class I hope to learn an effective way to use multiple presentation applications so I can use them when I give my lectures. I am also hoping to learn how to use everyday technology in my classroom. This class will get me updated on the most current programs that can be used in the classroom. By having to take tests on these programs in this class I will be able to effectively use them in my own classroom in the future.
Being a digital native means that you have grown up with technology surrounding you and being in your everyday life. Being a digital immigrant means technology has come into your life and you have to incorporate it into your daily routine. It is a similar concept to learning language, since it is easier to learn a language when your brain is still developing when you use it everyday in comparison to just trying to learn it halfway through your life. It is easier for the younger generations to use technology because it was introduced to them the moment they were born. It is more difficult for digital immigrants to use technology because they haven't had to use it for their entire lives. I anticipate that there will be a small gap between the way I use technology and the way my students use technology because technology is always changing. The gap hopefully won't be as large as the gap between the current generations because I am a digital native.
I like how you compared being a digital native/immigrant to learning a language at a young age vs. at an older age. It really gets the point across. I also agree that since our generation consists of digital natives, it will be easier for us to close the gap between our students and ourselves.
ReplyDeletep.s. I'm sorry about your technical difficulties. It sounds frustrating.
Oh my gosh! "I am experiencing computer problems which are hindering me from posting this blog in a timely manner." What a reality check! While technology is incredibly efficient, I have an adage for any technology project WITHOUT submission problems, "everything will take 10 times longer than you ever expect it might." Glad you persevered.
ReplyDeleteIn your second paragraph, you talk about how YOU will use technology. What will your students do?