Digital Blog Post #A: Chapter 1

After reading Chapter 1, “Becoming a 21st Century Teacher”, I still have a few mixed feelings about utilizing technology as much as some teachers might consider. I am not illiterate when it comes to new technologies, however incorporating them into teaching is more difficult for me to embrace. It is something I am trying to open my mind to and hopefully be able to embrace better. I was intrigued by the concept of using problem-solving/inquiry-learning technologies. I enjoy using computer based critical thinking games and tools. I never considered the learning aspect that could be derived from such activities. Any game or application where you must achieve a goal in order to progress to the next level or task can aid in problem solving skills, collaboration with others and critical thinking. As silly as it might be, my children and I play a game that involves solving a variety of puzzles, utilizing memorization, and critical thinking in order to complete the game and “safe the people” who are trapped. I never once considered this to be a tool to help teach and encourage learning. This flow chart offers different concepts to consider while encouraging inquiry-learning.  
Photo Credit to Christopher Lister via Flickr 

Another concept I found to be of interest is the use of “clickers” in the classroom. When I first read about them my original thought was Jeopardy. Once it was explained further, it sounded more like the entire class had the opportunity to answer and the results would be shared, discussed and understood further. This would be a tool I would love to be able to try, not only do I think that it would be useful to determine understanding, but using such a technology would enable me as a teacher to create games and contests that would facilitate learning without it being boring and being as engaging as possible. Vanderbilt University has a very informative page for strategies for using "clickers" in the classroom. 

The final concept that I have seen in use is the teacher website. This can include blog posts, podcast or wikis to facilitate learning. I have found as a parent that teacher websites are incredibly helpful if they are kept up to date. Understandably, maintaining a website, no matter how big or small, demands some attention, however if a few minutes a day or minimum once a week a teacher website is updated it can aid in better parent/teacher communication, assignment completion, and additional help for students who are struggling with a concept being taught in class. 

In conclusion, I understand that technology no plays a vital role in many lives today and in turn needs to find its place in the classroom. A healthy blend of technology and traditional methods can encourage student involvement, better understanding, and collaborative work. All of these concepts are necessary in becoming a contributing member of society. Technology is not all bad or all good, it all is in how it is utilized. 


References:
Bruff, D. (n.d.). Classroom Response Systems (“Clickers”). Retrieved from Vanerbilt University: Center for Teaching: https://cft.vanderbilt.edu/guides-sub-pages/clickers/ 
Smikle, Ewian. (October 9, 2013). Benefits of a Website to Students and Teachers. Retrieved from YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcVrWoqtMDw
Maloy, Robert, Verock-O’Loughlin,Ruth-Ellen, Edwards, Sharon A., and Woolf, Beverly Park (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education, Inc.