Technology in the Classroom

Doesn't that look like fun? Well my friends, that right there is technology being used in the classroom! So why wouldn't we put that in the classroom? Using technology in the classroom can only increase our students learning. It gives teachers the ability to take teaching to the next level because there are unlimited resources out there. While technology is definitely not a substitute for teaching, using the internet or other technology such as interactive whiteboards can increase the amount learned in a class period.

Using technology can also increase their depth of understanding. Many students are hand on learners so being able to use technology themselves can reinforce the information they are learning. They can even interact with other classrooms all around the world using technology. The possibilities are endless and I am on board with all of it! From the computers, cell phones, to interactive whiteboards, I say embrace the change and use it to your advantage! What do you think?

Check out the articles!

http://www.usnews.com/education/technology-in-the-classroom

Teaching with Technology in the Classroom

Spotlight on Technology in the Classroom

Interactive Whiteboards in the Classroom

Before starting graduate school, I did not have any experience with a whiteboard, and now that I have used them, I can't imagine using anything else! Teachers thought it was great when they got rid of the blackboard and chalk, but now we don't even have to use a whiteboard and markers! Interactive whiteboards are being seen in classrooms all over the country, and they are a treat if you have never used one.

An interactive whiteboard is a large interactive display that connects to a computer. A projector projects the computer's desktop onto the boards surface where users control the computer using a pen, or even your finger. The possibilities of use in the classroom with these is endless. Every time I use one I learn something new. You do a simple presentation or even have an interactive jeopardy game. It's amazing! Some even say that these make the classroom magical! Have you ever used these in your classroom? Check out this awesome video that shows you a little bit about what they can do. 

The Magical Classroom!

Cellphones in the Classroom

Some of you may be thinking, "Cellphones in the classroom?! What?!" and some of you may be thinking, "Cellphones in the classroom?! Yay!!" Now your view may depend on whether or not you are a 16 year-old high school student or a 32 year-old teacher, but either way cell phone use in the classroom is upon us!

The question is, should cell phones be allowed in the classroom? Will they help our students, or hinder them? One thing is for sure, regardless of any policy, students more than likely will have their cell phone with them. The fact is that more and more people have cell phones, including children. Studies show that 78% of all teens own a cell phone now and 47% of them can text with their eyes closed. Because they have this technology so young, they are digital natives and can usually use this technology better than most adults. So why not embrace this change and incorportate it into the classroom.

What do you think?

Articles to Check Out:
Should We Ban Cell Phones in the Classroom?
Do Cell Phones Belong in the Classroom?
Cell Phones in the Classroom, What's Your Policy?