McCrea, Bridget. (2009, December 10). 5 k-12 technology trends for 2010. The Journal, Retrieved from http://thejournal.com/articles/2009/12/10/5-k12-technology-trends-for-2010.aspx
Summary:
In this article, Bridget McCrea speaks with technology experts in various fields as to what new developments are practical for classroom implementation and will actually remain viable options as resources constantly change. The technology evaluated includes e-books, Netbooks, Smart-boards, personal tech. devices, and tailored curricula.
E-books, according to J. Purdy, an analyst from Atlanta, the level of use is currently limited in the classroom due to the expense and lack of color or graphics. For math and sciences in particular they are of little use. However, as the technology advances and more schools are able to afford the devices, using e-books in lieu of textbooks will inevitably take over. Not only will it diminish the stress on students backs from carrying books everywhere, but additional applications and materials available will increase the worth.
The use of netbooks, or smaller, inexpensive laptops will also bridge the technological divide for students who do not have computers at home. Access to word processors and the internet will increase their academic experience. Smart-boards are also tools to help students learn as well as teachers teach more effectively. Getting the students out of their seats and up to the board for interactive learning increases their classroom involvement and experience.
McCrea's acknowledgment of personal tech. devices 'infiltrating' the classroom is important for it both helps and hinders teachers ability to communicate with students, as well as their receptiveness. While IPods and cell phones often are cause for distraction in the classroom, with technology limited and expensive, smart-phones are often of use for teachers. Helping students utilize I-Phones and smart-phones for academic purposes will come in handy for many teachers in the coming years.
McCrea's acknowledgment of personal tech. devices 'infiltrating' the classroom is important for it both helps and hinders teachers ability to communicate with students, as well as their receptiveness. While IPods and cell phones often are cause for distraction in the classroom, with technology limited and expensive, smart-phones are often of use for teachers. Helping students utilize I-Phones and smart-phones for academic purposes will come in handy for many teachers in the coming years.
Response:
As a teacher candidate I am aware and excited about the technological changes accompanying academia. Students have more opportunities than ever to explore and garner information. However, I believe without the proper instruction and tools they often miss out on those opportunities due to lack of teacher involvement. I hope to challenge my future students to learn and explore new technology, and therefore found McCrea's article quite interesting in regards to what new technologies are available. Yet I finished wishing more applicable information regarding the usage of each type of device were given.
After reading McCrea's insights into the valuable technology for teachers in 2010 I felt slightly disappointed at the lack of insight into the various products. The article was quite short and did not refer to any brands or specifics about the different technologies, but rather described each with limited detail and moved on. As a young teacher I am quite aware of the technology available and realize that veteran teachers may find this information more valuable. However, I was disappointed with her analysis.
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