Blog # 4

I was very happy about how well our Integrated Technology unit went over with the class.  I think Ashley and I used technology in a very appropriate and easy to follow manner.  Our class WiKi contained everything that was needed to do the tasks and answer the questions that were assigned.  The links were all appropriately placed and in functional working order.  I don’t think technology was used for the sake of technology at any point of the unit.  I do think technology was used to enhance the unit and presented in a way to maximize time and information to do the tasks at hand and to make learning fun and easy and not frustrating or time consuming.

I think the Power Point allowed Ashley and me to present a well constructed overview of the unit, and at the same time present important information on the background of the artist and the movement.

The E-Sheet, WebQuest, Corkboard and survey, in my opinion, were very well organized and easy to work with.  All the information was there that was needed to complete all of the tasks.  This made the unit fun and interesting.  Everything flowed to help the creative process.

I think our biggest problem with the presentation was trying to fit everything into the twenty minute time slot.

Blog # 3

Blog #3

Generation M2: Media in the Lives of 8-18 Year Olds

I think the findings in the reading would have surprised me if I didn’t work in a school where every student does have a cell phone and talks about the technology they use everyday.  I was surprised about the numbers (hour and a half) associated with texting.  I thought it would be higher.  I also thought the average time playing video games (about two hours) would be higher.  My students talk continuously about playing video games.  They talk about being up until 4:00 a.m. playing games, and some of these games they play with other people online.  I am often asked if I want to play online with them or what games I play.  When I answer that I don’t play video games they look at me like I am crazy.

I think students spend too much time texting and playing games.  What about playing outside and live social interaction?  I think social interaction is going to be a big problem for them at some point.

I don’t think it’s all bad.  The use of technology by students helps them feel comfortable with it, and will help them, if used appropriately, with school work and in the workforce.

As far as technology in my teaching goes I would use technology where technology is beneficial to students, and not just for the sake of using technology.  I will have to be aware of the technology that exists in order to make educated decisions about its use, and also to help combat cheating, cyber bullying and whatever new issues come up with technology.

Over all, I think technology, when used in moderation and used appropriately, is a good tool for everyone.