As educators, how can we make learning fun and interesting (especially learning a foreign language)? Maybe use computers, the internet, teacher-websites, blogs, etc.
Educators are constantly competing with the ongoing changing "world of technology" in order to keep students hooked in learning. As soon as we learn one gadget a new one comes out and we have to learn it; learning for educators never stops!! We are constantly learning new technology to keep up with our students because they seem to learn it before us.
I recently designed a lesson using instant messaging and video chats for students to practice their conversational skills in Spanish. Students were amazed that I incorporated these methods in their lesson and were very excited in trying it. It was a bit challenging designing this lesson but it worked!
My question to you is, how far should we go when it comes to the use of technology in our classrooms?
3 comments:
If technology is going to enhance learning and engage students then it should be used. However, the teacher should be proficient in using the strategy and it should be accessible to the school and students. Also depending on the type of technology, it should be used in moderation or you may want to use it to differentiate
How far should teachers go when using technology within the classroom depends on your students' learning style, students' and teachers' knowledge of the technology being used, ease of use in learning and using, availability within the school and at home, and the type of subject matter being taught? These factors need to be taken into consideration when developing lessons and how far teachers can go with using technology. Right now most schools in Connecticut have computers within the classroom that can be used as an assistive tool for teachers and students but not all schools provide appropriate training for teachers to use them. I have used SMART Board technology in the classroom as a learning tool and have found that students are extremely engaged in whatever the learning activity is -- especially hands on, watching a video, etc.
I believe that the use of all technology can be beneficial for students. However, expectations and guidelines must be set to ensure efficient and productive use of technology. I like the idea of using instant messaging and video chat to encourage conversational skills. It uses a medium in that students are familiar with. Nice job!
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