That was quite the class on Wednesday right? Who ever thought that people would get so heated over technology in the classroom. You're right when you said that our class is a group of perfectionists. I think the research project assignment was useful, and it did give me the opportunity to do different things with Microsoft Word. I think people were put off by the "research" aspect of the directions. But, I do recall you saying you wanted a magazine feel to it. Otherwise, I never would have included sub-headings because that's something I'm not used to. I believe though that in the future, all of us will incorporate different tools in our papers to grab the attention of professors.
I really enjoyed reading the article, "21st Century Learning: We're Not Even Close." We've discussed in the past the ever changing expectations from the role of technology in education. This article highlighted the need for accountability from the school system, government, and state and local agencies. I liked the idea of private businesses using their financial muscles to raise funding for technology in the 21st cenury classroom. It is obviously important for the educators themselves to be familiar with these products. If they're not confident in the product, or comfortable using them, then the students will pick up on that and not achieve the intended goal of the product. SETDA, ISTE, and The Partnership for 21st century provided easy enough examples for teachers to do in order to get used to a more technologically centered classroom. There are so many sites out there such as Atomic Learning that instruct users on the ins and outs of tech programs and tools. Instant Messaging shouldn't be too intimidating for an older crowd and vieoconferencing is (as we've experienced some variations of it) an exciting experience to share and learn from others.
I was a little disappointed with the way Erin and my presentation went. Group presentations are always hard to do. I think I liked my essay better. I'm more of an independent worker, but this project was so detailed, that I saw the need to work with a partner. It was challenging to come to certain agreements, and I did feel a little rushed by the time limit. Everyone had a lot of information, so it was hard to get everything in. I think my favorite presentation was Adrian's. I wish we got to see his videos. I also think giving each presentation feedback is useful. I've done this in a lot of classes, and I find it helpful to receive feedback from my classmates, instead of just from a professor. Sometimes they give a more truthful opinion coming from a peer. And you know me, I'm a big fan of anonymity!
What do you think of me visiting Trumbull High School for the site visit? I graduated in '05, and I know I mentioned that they were a little lackluster in the technology field. Do you want a wide range of schools, or to research a more technologically savvy school? I think it would be cool to see the advancements my school has made (if any). Not that it was a bad education, but I didn't rely on technology so much. It was more at home that I used the computer or other technology for homework or projects. I know I mentioned that one project I did. Let me know.
I agree with the article when it said that the misconceived notion is that technology is already being integrated into classrooms at a successful achievement rate. This is not true, knowing the surrounding area to be ill equipped with technology packages. And even if schools do have top notch equipment, it doesn't mean it's being used to its full potential. Take for example the SmartBoards Fairfield U has in their classrooms. I've only used them for projecting PowerPoints. We've heard so many good things about them, but I have yet to use it in an interactive setting. Like you said, they could be on the way out if different and more efficient models are developed. This is all fine and dandy, but what about the price these schools have to pay for this technology? I like that the article said that both national, state, and local groups need to be a part of this process, especially to discuss funding of technology. SETDA is already pioneering what programs/technology is needed and appropriate for different school systems.
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Thanks for expressing yourself so sincerely in this blog, especially your opening paragraph. As a professor, I was "taken back" by the adverse reaction that I received from a few of your classmates when only trying to help every student in the classroom succeed in life.
Here's the amazing part. You'll be shocked! I actually called the National Modern Language Association and spoke with their head librarian. He said, bullets, sub-headings, and pictures can be allowed depending on the professor's requirements. I called Fairfield University's library and was told the same. Plus, I spoke with 3 major publishing companies and they agreed with me! Why would some students not believe me? Things have changed in life and all I want to do is make everyone successful! To go one step further from a friend of mine who writes for the NY Times, he says even hyphens in sentences are now appropriate - also, one sentence paragraphs. His major comment was, "Wait till your students go out into the real world, they will found out the hard way." Well enough said for that subject, but I thought you would find this interesting.
Much can be said about that article. I could go on for hours in just one class as to what is going wrong in many classrooms with technology. You hit upon something that was so perfect: Those whiteboards are only used for presentations and not what they should be used for. I have been saying that for the past 3 years. In fact, you may prompt me to write an article about that concept in my magazine. Magazines only tell positive things and not the true facts.
I'm glad you approved of having students give their feedback too. You should have seen the expressions on the students when I said it...they looked alarmed. However, most of the students in the blogs mentioned it was a great idea.
As far as your presentation, it went well. The only flaw was that the slides had too much content on them. This is what I said after your presentation. However,this is how we all learn. The purpose is to make mistakes and be corrected. The content was excellent. My mission is to make you all succeed in the future and get a successful job. Whatever you learn in my class will follow you with your interview, your new job, and your classroom.
As for Trumbull High School, check to see if it has improved with maybe a neighbor. I'm sure it has by now. Schools have changed dramatically in the past 3 years with technology. Plus, you really will know what to evaluate now after seeing what a 21st century classroom should be.
Well, you wrote a very long blog here. In return, I felt you would appreciate some very detailed comments which I provided. Again, I appreciate your honesty with your comments about last week's class. You were the ONLY ONE who wasn't afraid to bring it up and state your opinion. Hence, I felt comfortable in explaining my viewpoint which I hope you enjoyed and appreciated.
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