While reading this article one can't help but get excited about the possibilities that can result form the technology that has been developed in the last few years. These advancements can lead to better communication between teachers, students, parents, and administration. It is well known that good communication is a key to any successful relationship. All teachers want their students to think critically and in more depth. These advancements also allow students to create their thoughts and answers and also provide opportunities for teachers to make students accountable for their work not only to them but to other students. Most students these days want to use technology in their learning and in many classrooms teachers are using these technologies in their strategies.
Unfortunately two major problems arise when we discuss technology in the classroom, money and "dinosaur teachers". Many school districts across the U.S. just simply don't have the money needed to equip our teachers and students with the technology needed. To my dismay I just found out that they have cut out two technology based teachers from my sons' school for next year. School districts say they understand the importance of technology but the first place they look to make cuts are often times tied to this area. Another important thought here is the fact that any many cases the students do not have access to computers at home. This is a major barrier for teachers. The scenario presented in the article is definitely looking through rose colored glasses but unfortunately is not realistic for all school districts.
The "dinosaur teacher" that resists change and technology are found in all our schools. We all have our ways and styles but there will always be those that say and do things "the way I have always done them". This resistance will continue to delay the day when all teachers are using blogs and wikis. I do think eventually we will see the day where most teachers are using technology to their advantage and more importantly to their students advantage.
Learning to use these programs and technologies is very important to me. Having two kids of my own I feel an obligation to them to keep up with the advancements in order to be able to help them through school and be a resource for them as well. Having at least a base understanding of these programs allows me to stay involved in their world.
Hey, Fig, I totally agree with you. I especially liked the last paragraph and your discussion of the dinosaur teacher. Thanks to trainings such as this one, I never have to be a dinosaur.
ReplyDeleteI know exactly what you are talking about when you refer to the 'dinosaur' teacher. I do agree up to a point. From your point of view, they are a hinderance to progress in the area of technology. I am 6 years from retirement and I understand their reluctance to embrace all the new technology out there. I am comfortable using a computer, email, social networks and message boards. I am not familiar nor comfortable with all the new tools at our disposal. Using them is way out of my comfort zone. I suspect that it is also out of the comfort zone of someone who is just grasping the basics when it comes to technology. I am taking classes to learn about them and how to use them but if you haven't grown up in the digital age, you just don't pick it up as fast as people who have.
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