Technology to support learning
Everyone pretty much agrees with the fact that technology is the oldest, newest, ever-evolving standard of life. No matter who you are or what you believe in, you have and will continue to use technology. As defined in the beginning sections of the chapters, books and blackboards are technology. Therefore, you have contributed to this standard.
Technology is always advancing. Just when you learn one thing, companies are offering you the "latest version" that has more features. How can we ever keep up? How can teachers use the resources provided by our society to help support learning in their classroom?
I've gone over these questions and questioned even more. If everyone knows that technology is a part of life, why won't the schools find the financial resources to support these requests. Why are we always late to jump on the ban wagon?
"There is no money" seems to be the best response. It's probably true. We may not have the resources to fund what is really needed to support the idea. Does that mean we give up? No, that means we just try harder. In reference to The No Child Left Behind Act, one standard defined is the fact that our students need to possess the skills and knowledge of technology within their eighth grade year. (To what I remember) This notation proves that steps are being taken to ensure that someday we will get to this "dream" point and technology will greatly be used to support learning. One day!
posted by M-ages at 3:02 AM
2 Comments:
I definitely agree with your idea that embracing technology had been a historical reality and a never ending endeavor. I share your frustration about the lack of support and commitment from the government and administrators. It is a never ending cycle of blame or excuses. Here in Guam, the situation is worse when we compare ourselves to our mainland counterparts.
I do not believe that we lack money. It is the lack of priority. If these people would evaluate themselves and truthfully see where their heart lies - it's in their pocket. Funds have been misappropriated to just fill the pockets of the higher ups. If only they would truly feel for the youth rather than just talking about them, it should indeed be a No Child Left Behind time.
But as in our case, we can start the change from within ourselves. We study, we apply, and we will be persistent in integrating technology into our teaching.
"It is better to light just one little candle than to stumble in the dark".
10:49 PM
Many times, I have heard that money is out there (somewhere). I think long-term planning and vision are the aspects which are difficult to possess nowadays. Teachers often find themselves getting the short end of the stick because administrators face obstacles with the school public system, lawmakers, or other colleagues who do not share the same vision.
Let the administrators and lawmakers worry about getting the computers in the classroom...that's their job. You need to continue the great work you are doing...taking enhancement courses, encouraging and challenging your students, and being resourceful. While you may not have twenty computers in the class room, you are more resourceful than you think.
Go GECKO teacher!
3:19 AM
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