I started writing this blog post and then I hit save and thought I would finish it later.
So now is 'later'. I was talking to two other teachers about technology and here I am back on the blog finishing 'that' post I had started a few weeks back. So.... Originally we were talking about how we use technology and how technology is or isn't supported. The idea of one to one devices, shared devices, purpose of other peripherals, printers and on and on. We have come so far from when technology - or rather how to use technology had to be 'taught' in a lab and was not connected to the day-to-day learning. To be honest that situation was not that long ago but was certainly not in the 'school life-time' of my Grade 5 students. When technology becomes seamless as a functioning feature in the learning within the classroom it is powerful. We all have the horror lessons when 'it won't load' or 'it doesn't work' but when it does work and it is seamless it is one of those moments when you mentally go 'Yep.. this is all good!' Students expect technology to be part of their learning the same ways as it is part of their life. The question that still comes to mind is the fact that despite the occasional 'it won't load', and frustratingly slow internet. "Why are we still talking about integration of technology as if it is new?" I am not saying that technology isn't changing; the new gagets, apps, software and hardware are constantly changing. Will teachers ever 'know everything'? I hope not! But then teachers are not supposed to know everything. But technology is here to stay and those who embrace it as a tool to support teaching and learning will move forward with their students, in the 21st century (we are 17 years in now!) We need an environment of open-minded thinkers who are willing to look at technology as a tool to enhance learning opportunities. An environment where technology is a tool to enhance or enable or support learning, where people are all actively up-skilling themselves, inquiring into the what and how; working with students to find solutions, to be creative and to take opportunities to build understanding and consolidate knowledge. Before we know it we will be half way through the 21st century . . . so embrace the technology and work with students . . . technology integration in life is not new for our students, they were only born 11 years ago. Their parents use cell phones, digital cameras, they talk on Skype and Face-time, they use Facebook or email and they probably have bluetooth in their car and apple TV for Netflix.... and who knows what else! You have 'tec-sperts' in the room ... work with them! If you don't know who they are - Find Out! Comments are closed.
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AuthorTeaching in an IBPYP school; interests: student agency, technology integration, growth mindset & the continuous cycle of improvement that is the world of education, learning and being! Archives
June 2018
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