Tech Teacher: iPod, uPod

After reading this article I realized how easy it would be to incorporate podcasting into the classroom. This kind of integration allows for students to easily connect to the wide world around them. Students can easily perform interviews over the Internet using technology such as Skype or iChat. Those two programs are both free Internet phone services. What is also convenient about podcasting is that is fairly inexpensive; all that is required is, simply, a PC (an old one will work just fine), a $15-$20 microphone and a free editing program such as Audacity.

I think that podcasting would and can be a great addition to some classrooms. I don't necessarily see a use for it in the physical education setting, but perhaps within the English or social studies realm. I always think it is great when teachers find new ways to stimulate student learning.

http://www.edutopia.org/node/3949

Simulation Nation

Simulation technology and certain activities are being advocated by many teachers, including Marc Prensky. He sees a great need for the integration of simulation technology into the public school system. Prensky sees a growing trend in careers using the simulation technology among them are: engineering finance, medicine as well as military. Because this type of technology is being used by actual companies it is a real world experience that students have an opportunity to become acquainted with. The biggest problem associated with the integration of technology is a lack of funding, time and teacher knowledge of the program. Presnky points out that the greatest asset to any teacher are their teaching colleagues.

Simulation activities and programs can be a great way to safely help students see real world problems. They can help students to stay motivated and interested in the subject area. I think these programs are great ways for teachers to implement real world issues into the classroom. I would love to see more of this in the everyday classroom.

http://www.edutopia.org/simulation-nation

Too Much Technology

At a high school in Alexandria, Virginia there is an English teacher who thinks that technology is partly causes a lack in student learning. According this teacher, student simply point click, type and click again to find the answers. There isn't any thinking going on, simply searching the computer for an answer is not becoming proficient in subjects such as math, or writing. The English teacher has been at the high school for 30 years and feels like the school simply implements new devices or programs simply because they are available.

I have mixed emotions on this type of article. I can completely see where this man is coming from. However, I also see a great need for technology to be included in the classroom. Whether we like it or not technology is and will be a major part of our lives. I also think that the teacher may not be setting proper boundaries for his students; if used effectively computers and computer programs can be a great way to teach new skills.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/08/AR2008020803271_2.html

Technology and Disibilities

Throughout this article there are examples of ways to make technology more user friendly and applicable to students with disabilities. According to this article technology can make even the most stubborn students more apt to learn and participate simply because technology appeals to such a wide range of student interests. Embedded within the article is a chart that lists and describes ways to combat different disabilities using technology; from ADHD, to BD, to the blind and deaf students. Using technology also works to motivate the 'normal' or students without disabilities because as it is apart of their everyday life as well.

I like the idea of incorporating technology into the physical education setting. Engaging students in new ways is always an important part of any teachers job. I feel as though games like Dance Dance Revolution, and music as well as Power Point presentations would do a great job of motivating students to remain active. I can see a Power Point presentation working well within a physical education setting. I think that it would be useful in posting the agenda and learning targets for everyone to see.


http://www.techlearning.com/db_area/archives/WCE/archives/dianesn1.php