Teachers' Views on Technology in the Classroom - Video Feature
Take a few minutes to watch this video series from teachers across the country and abroad that are using technology in the classroom.
Some of the technologies observed in the series include ipads and ipod touches, overhead projectors, powerpoint, youtube, laptops, skype, google docs, garage band, and dragon naturally speaking.
Some ways they're using technology include:
Reverse Learning --- View videos of lessons for homework then later discuss in class.
Using technology in non-science, math or tech related classes, eg, history, art
Digital Warmups --- begin classes by asking a few questions and getting immediate feedback using google docs, ipod’s, and the teachers website.
Enabling students to freely explore their interests.
Laptop programs beginning in Kindergarten.
Using technology to assist children with learning disabilities.
There are some issues...
Teachers don’t always know the latest technologies --- However they don't need to know. Sometimes they learn together. Sometimes teachers learn from students.
Distractions --- email, twitter, facebook, youtube
Another issue that jumps out at me are the costs. Some of these technologies are cost prohibitive for some families... Thanks to resources like donorschoose.org, we're beginning to change that.
It's clear to me that the benefits far outweigh the problems.
