This week's reading was very interesting it just demonstrated how much technology is becoming an increasingly important tool for the classroom. Here are some questions...
- How can mobile commuting be a positive tool for the classroom?
- What are the benefits of electronic books?
- What do you think may be some disadvantages that may come from these advancements in technology?
2. What are the benefits of electronic books?
ReplyDeleteI feel the most important benefit, by far, of electronic books is the sheer ability to carry around hundreds of volumes of books in a single, easy to carry device. On the collegiate level, any student will tell you how hard it is to schlep from class to class carrying twenty or thirty pounds of books on his or her shoulders. If our textbooks were available online, it would be easier if all we had to bring to class was an electronic device that would allow us to pull up any book in our library. From an elementary level, I've witnessed firsthand how "cool" these devices are to students. They are also easy to use, even for younger children with enough practice.
Another reason why electronic books are so beneficial is that they do not require the use of trees to make, which of course means they are environmentally friendly. The books purchased are also sent virtually to your device, which eliminates any shipping or handling charges. Many classic titles are available for free from certain publishers, which would be very beneficial to teachers, as they could purchase these books for little to no cost.
Question 3: What do you think may be some disadvantages that may come from these advancements in technology?
ReplyDeletePersonally, I believe there are disadvantages that may come from technology. As technology continues to increase in classrooms, I think there is a decrease in libraries and research. I can still remember my first visit to a library and I was able to pick out any book I wanted. I could hold the book, open it, take it home with me if I wanted, read it with a friend. Books come in all shapes, sizes, and different colors. If we turn to technology, we will miss the creativity and personal connections with reading. Most students including myself turn to the internet 99% of the time, if books and more technological advances continue we will lose the discovery and interest of interviewing or investigating. We will use others resources or discoveries instead of researching.
In addition, money is a major factor to these advances. As times get tougher expenses continue to grow, many homes lack technology and it will be even harder for parents to keep up with all the advances. Districts are already facing many financial situations as technology continues to grow there will be less money available towards these changes.
Question 1:
ReplyDeleteHow can mobile commuting be a positive tool for the classroom?
Mobile commuting is a great way to help students grow and learn as technology expands. Almost all students have some sort of mobile technology and as that grows teachers are making the connections in a classroom and learning how to make those resources available. Portability is one of the best reasons to use in a classroom because it will be easy for the students to use. "...Staff are experimenting with the possibilities for collaboration and communication" (NMC,2010). communication is also a great concept of using a mobile device. Students can make a group blog as well and communicate with that from home or in a classroom setting. Students will learn to be comfortable with mobile devices and integrate technology into their lifestyle. Technology can't be ignored because it is in our everyday life. The size of the mobile device is not important, but the easy access to the internet and online resources is great! Teaching the students emerging technology will benefit them greatly, and they will be able to take the skills they learned home and show family members what they learned.
In my journalism class in high school we all had access to mac laptops in the classroom, instead of going to the computer lab. I really enjoyed being able to stay in the classroom while using the laptop. I was able to access the internet and do the research required while still being in class. It was a better learning environment for me and I feel it is a great idea.