My response to chapters 7 & 8,
Software, applications and games all help students solve problems. In a case like Rosie's, the problem is that mathematics is usually a very direct, systematic subject with little room for creativity or fun. Introducing an app like 4MALITY does wonders! Some students suffer from what I like to call "math-itis" where they all of a sudden feel sick or have to go to the bathroom during math, That is because math makes them uncomfortable and they are looking for ways to avoid it. By utilizing games and applications, even the most disinterested student can be reached, and the struggling students will receive tutoring in the process.
Problem solving through use of education software is still a developing concept, Being able to use real-world situations to increase learning is one of the easiest ways to get children engaged. when they see "why they need to know this material" it makes them actually interested in it. Problem-based learning, like WebQuests, also do the trick. It allows students to feel as if they are in control of their education. The problem solving process, as relates to problem solving with technology, also allows for incorporation of blooms taxonomy levels from lower-order thinking to higher-order thinking, leaving even more room for differentiation of instruction; the most important part is selecting the right software or application for the job ( I also really appreciated the included list of web resources for educators included in this chapter).
My one qualm about computer resources is that children today rely heavily on computers as it is, for information, entertainment and to complete various tasks and requirements. If they start getting used to always doing math on the computer, they will struggle to do it any other way, That being said, I think that using apps and gaming software are great to supplement and reinforce, but the bulk of the work should still be done by hand.Social media is another great resource to have in the classroom (as long as it us utilized appropriately). If used effectively, it provides another platform for communication and collaboration. Computer-mediated collaboration allows for many different kinds of exchanges between people. teachers can now communicate with students through email and classroom websites, and the class can interact on websites or in online discussions. It also allows for teachers to network with fellow teachers for new ideas and strategies to employ in their classrooms. It allows for informational dissemination to families and teaching beyond the school day. Overall, these developments in the realm of technology can be of great assistance to teachers, as long as they are used effectively and appropriately,
Hi Jamie,
ReplyDeleteI definitely approve of outside the school communication with parents because I realise that so many parents do not have the resources (whether it is fiscal or time) to communicate during the day. I would set boundaries that include giving parents a window in which I return e-mails (so they know when they can expect a response). I don't know if I would give my phone number out (I probably would, but it would probably be a bad idea) since I am not sure how often parents would be using it! Ultimately, I definitely value increased communication with parents, I just need to find responsible ways to do it.
I am also constantly amazed by the sheer amount of software and content that is now available. It seems as though there is an endless amount of material available on the internet nowadays. That being said, it is often hard to pinpoint the useful and appropriate material that can be used in the classroom. I agree that students are often too reliant on digital technology, but on the other hand, that is the world we are currently living in. I think it's important to establish a balance early on between how much time is spent using digital software and how often work is done by hand. It's important that students learn a variety of skills and be able to fully engage in a number of different activities without becoming reliant on one method over another.
ReplyDeleteI do approve of outside-of-school communication with students and parents but I definitely agree there should be some kind of boundaries set up. It is good for students and parents that they could get feedbacks from teachers on their convenient time but as for teachers who are in charge of a lot of students at once might be overwhelming. It would be a good idea if the school provide a set guidelines to students and parents how they should contact their teachers and how.
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