That's a wrap!
Third year practicum was a whirlwind of learning and growing. Along side my peers and my professional mentors, I have gained more insight into just how important teaching is. I have also learned just how much we've come to rely on technology in the classroom. 20 years ago the thought that elementary students would be using devices on a daily basis would be unimaginable. Yet here we are! As a student, I have been using a lot of technology for a number of years. I honestly could not get through my journey without it! And as teachers we will 100% rely on technology. We can see this importance especially since the COVID pandemic.
Every day, I need my computer to write my lessons, search for ideas to bring to the classroom, share videos and pictures, play games and do assessments and create resources. I'm certain that there are many things that I'm missing, but you get the point! In my class, my MT used her Smart Board and her computer connected to listen to morning announcements and present lessons. As I moved into teaching I also used the Smart Board for teaching... I didn't use it I RELIED on it. It is clear that technology is not just a need, it is a necessity.
Having my own children I know that the use of technology should be limited and parameters should be set. It can be difficult in a classroom setting where much of the stuff we do is on devices and as educators we rely so heavily on it. But it can be used for the good!! I had my students do a Plicker and a Blooket, as well as a French activity where they needed to use google translate, and a research project.
I think that being aware of the downfalls and detriments to using technology is the only way to be able to use it for education. Setting boundaries, reviewing the rules, and showing students that we can learn and have fun in other ways is the best way to integrate technology in the classroom. Share books, learn outside, do hands on activities! Showing students that technology has a place in the classroom, but that we can find ways to be less connected will help them to grow and learn in many ways.
It's amazing to see the use of technology you have developed. Setting the parameters as well as being aware of the detriments and downfalls many of us can fall into is amazing.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to see you've had a cautious and successful use of technology in the classroom. Congratulations on a successful year!
It's crazy to see the evolution of technology in the classroom. It's nice to see you were able to find ways to utilize technology in your practicum and also consider the boundaries. Congratulations on completing the third year practicum!
ReplyDeleteWow, this is great!! I love how you not only wrote about how technology can play a vital role in and out of the classroom but it's downfalls too. CONGRATULATIONS!! Your future students are going to be so lucky to have you as their teacher!
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