From my viewpoint, I think a lot of emphasis is placed on test scores. So, when the questions arise about increased scores, there is often negativity concerning new ideas and their implementation.
Technology has become a huge part of my life. I have learned to balance using my puter with paper books. I teach elementary school and we do a lot online. There's no getting around it, esp. for taking attendance. More and more schools are changing paper docs over to web designed programs for purposes such as this.
I couldn't teach as well without technology. Even when there are glitches and it doesn't work out like I imagined, I turn to plan B. There will always be a plan B...and C. I try to be flexible to use what is available to me.
In my mind, some have lost sight of the morals and implementations of educating others. Technology helps with differentiation and reading, too. I find my students are less bored when I use an iPad or such with them for teaching purposes. It lets me do things I couldn't do on paper.
For example, I use it for a schedule with students who need visuals during transition times. It helps make the day go more smoothly and they are happier, too.
This is my experience in the classroom with my students.
Please see the article:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/answer-sheet/post/what-the-ipad-and-other-technology-cant-replace-in-education/2011/09/11/gIQAxtJlLK_blog.html'''
Laurel
First of all, I agree there is too much emphasis on test scores. In fact, I think the tests need to go away completely. I think we may have been in the same class last year in which we read 'The Case Against Standardized Tests' by Alfie Kohn. I only mention it because it is a great book and if everyone reads it they will see how useless and harmful standardized tests are and maybe they will end some day.
ReplyDeleteAs for the I-pads, I think they have a place in the classroom, but I am concerned about the schools that can't provide the devices. Meanwhile, paper books are getting closer to becoming obsolete. If there is no money in printing books, they will become more scarce and the kids in schools that can't afford the devices needed for E-books will be left behind.