We all become Learners Blog Post #7

As a new teacher, it is imperative that I be open to be a learner. By knowing my weaknesses, such as; low technical abilities and sometimes preferring a more traditional approach, I can become a learner with my students. My strengths of the enjoyment of learning and the ability to see all obstacles as a challenge I will enjoy the eagerness of children to help increase my knowledge as well as their knowledge.

Using Imovie and Virtual Library in Kindergarten

The interview between Ms. Davis and Ms. Bennett, both who are media specialist in Baldwin County, confirms that we are learning more from children every day. We as adults who were taught with pencil and paper hold the knowledge, we only need to engage children at a level which they are comfortable. Children are intrigued by new technology and will seek and search ways to improve themselves while using technology. As a teacher, we are going to need to listen as much as we request our students to listen. We need to encourage their abilities to teach each other and to teach themselves.

Ms. Bennett's enthusiasm for Kindergartens book trailers is refreshing. Most teachers who have been in the field feel that the "old" way of teaching is the only way. Enthusiasm is lost among most educators due to either frustration with technology or lack of training.

We All Become Learners

As stated before, the best educator is one who is willing to learn along side his or her student. Asking questions in the classroom that lead to discussions and research is the most beneficial way for a student to learn. Projects reinforce the theories we teach. Being able to ourselves question our on learning and reflections will only enhance to ability of our students to learn.

Ipads in the Classroom

Viewing the interviews with various schools in Chicago and the implementation of Ipads in the classroom gives me more motivation the embrace technology in my curriculum. Watching the eagerness of the students and educators on this new adventure only confirms the reasons I chose to become a teacher. I want to experience the smiles on the faces of students when they figure out a puzzle. I see that different areas of learning can be utilized by using an Ipad. You can explain to different children from different backgrounds and learning levels on the Ipad. It is configured to their learning patterns instead of the student trying to learn in only one direction.

Top 10 Reasons for Technology in Education

Should anyone question the reasoning for technology in education, you need only have them view this intriguing video. They put it in simple steps on how it is beneficial. To summarize the reasoning; engagement, participation, feedback and connection to the subjects are first utilized . There are also the benefits of less time working on grading papers. You can use specialized applications for children who need special education as well as for gifted students who need to progress faster so they do not lose the drive to learn. The technology can also remove obstacles such as visual impairments and needing to be closer to the front of the class to hear. Technology use in the classroom is a great way to engage both student and teachers.