Digital Blog Post #B Chapter 2

When reading chapter 2 there were three learning concepts that I wanted to further more reflect upon. The first concept was the different patterns of technology that is used by teachers. A fun fact I read during chapter 2 was that only one in five teachers use technology often in class to support student learning. With students entering the teaching world in the 21st century, they already know the basics when operating computers, powerpoint presentations, and communicating electronically. Looking back at the table 2.1 there are a list of the different learning environments with technology from traditional classrooms to technology based classrooms. One that stood out from the rest was Academic information from non interactive textbooks and encyclopedias to academic information from multiple interactive web based sources. Students do not want to sit in a class room and get lectured. With performing different resources and creating projects for them to get their information on certain education web pages it encourages them to work harder.

Also, there are multiple barriers to technology use in schools by not only teachers but students as well. The lack of money and being on tight budget causes schools to not be up to date with technology. If the society is changing fast with all of this technology, it needs to be brought to schools and used to the fullest potential. A way to overcome lack of money teachers can use free learning tools that they offer online instead of buying something for the kids to do homework on.  In addition to lack of money, I believe the parents have an outlook on it as well. They have that "if I didn't learn that way my kids shouldn't" perspective. Adapting to technology takes time and patience.

The last learning concept I thought was interesting was developing lessons and engaging the students. About two thirds of high school students reported feeling bored in classes everyday. Instructional practices helps you interact with the students. An example of this would be having a discussion online where everyone can interact with the certain topic and look at different feedbacks. You can also use administrative activities. This is the organizing of the activities teachers need to perform to support the their behind the scene tasks that make instructional practices succeed.  This article informs you with five different ways to give them more choices.

In conclusions chapter 2 gave you an advanced out put on how technology impacts different situations both negative and positive ways. It helps you understand educational technology issues and trends for 21st century teachers. 

Resources: 

Alber, R. (2014, March 31). 5 Ways to Give Your Students More Voice and Choice. Retrieved September 06, 2016, from http://www.edutopia.org/blog/five-strategies-more-voice-choice-students-rebecca-alber

Freeman, K. (2016, September 3). Ask the ToonDoo Ferret! - ToonDoo - World's fastest way to create cartoons! Retrieved September 06, 2016, from http://www.toondoo.com/Search.toon?searchfield=teachingFrondeville, T. D. (2009, August 03). How to Keep Kids Engaged in Class. Retrieved September 06, 2016, from http://www.edutopia.org/classroom-student-participation-tips

Maloy, R., O'Loughlin, R., Edwards, S., & Woolf, B. (2013). Transforming Learning with New Technologies. 2nd Edition. Boston, MA: Pearson Education Inc.