Although our Internet for Educators skype call with Clarence Fisher was brief, it was still packed full of valuable information! Clarence is a junior high teacher in Snow Lake, MB and uses technology in his classroom, not only as a learning tool, but also to connect the students in his somewhat remote community with the rest of the world.
A point that Clarence made was that technology is now an ever changing industry and as educators it is our responsibility to prepare the students for a world that is constantly changing. This has been a reoccurring theme from all of the speakers that we have had in our class, but I think a really important point. I know that as an educator, I must educate myself as much as possible in the area of technology so that I am able to teach my students how to use education properly and effectively for their educational needs.
Another point that Clarence made was that "kids should create, not just consume". I think this is key to using technology effectively in the classroom. The are so many tools for kids to tap into in terms of technology and if those tools are used effectively kids can expand their learning by amazing levels. It is our job as educators to expose the students to these tools and give them guidance in using technology to enhance their education. We need to think about why we are infusing technology, have a purpose for it, and give the students the tools to use it to it's fullest potential.
In a PD with Devon Caldwell she spoke about the importance of connecting her students with others around the world. Clarence Fisher spoke of the same thing. I think this is a very important way of using technology in the classroom, at any age level. Not only does it help the students build a network with others, but it also teaches empathy and appreciation. If students are able to see the lives of their peers in another part of the world they are not only able to appreciate what they have, but also develop a sense of understanding for what challenges others go through on a daily basis.
It was great to hear how Clarence is using technology in his classroom and the successes that he has had! Great information and strategies that I can't wait to implement!
Hey Erin, great reflection! I found Clarence's point on making sure there is a purpose for technology in the classroom was really important too. It seems now that classrooms are just trying to find ways to integrate technology in the classes without any real focus. I think that with a purpose students have more of an opportunity to create, and I agree that as educators we need to provide these tools and opportunities for them.
ReplyDeleteTechnology evolves so quickly, it is almost impossible to evolve at the same rate. However, we have to try right? I do a lot of reading about new tech, because I should probably know how to use it right if I'm going to use it. So much of it is out there though that it is impossible to use it all, and use it all correctly. If we know how to use it though, then so will our students, and then they will be able to CREATE!!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of your comments! I think this is exactly where a class like Internet for Educators will put us a step ahead. A lot of divisions are making technology a mandatory part of the classroom, but now that we have the knowledge on how to infuse it with a purpose our students will benefit on a deeper level. I also think that having the right tools will allow our students a greater opportunity to "create" rather than just use the technology!
ReplyDeleteI heard Devon Caldwell is doing great things with technology in kindergarten class. The things she able to do with 5 year olds is amazing, makes you wonder what we can do someday with a group of middle year's students. Connecting with students in other parts of the world is a great idea, because it's something that would keep the students engaged in their learning and that's what it's all about. I hope to use it in the future.
ReplyDeleteIt is incredible how powerful technology is as a connecting tool. I think that it is so great especially for remote communities like Clarence. It can be a great equalizer between schools who are in remote locations and may not have the same resources for learning available in their local community.
ReplyDeleteI agree with both of your comments Tom & Carissa! Seeing what Deveon has done with a kindergarten class in terms of connecting them to others is amazing. However, I think it would have an even greater and deeper impact in higher grades to encourage building community as well as empathy. I can't wait to have my class connect with another class somewhere else in the world. What an amazing learning opportunity!
ReplyDeleteI am really impress with you for the selecting of new and unique topic and also well written article on it. Thanks for sharing with us.
ReplyDeleteGuest Posting Sites List
Your selection of topic is very good and also well written. Thanks for sharing with us most effective information.
ReplyDeleteSEO Tricks