Technology a Catalyst

This research, along with the previews others, explains why the educational system has not intergrated technology in the classrooms and explains what prevents educational researchers from giving definitive answers about technology in the classroom. The some critics of the educational system believe that among others problems with technology it could isolate children. However millions of people use the internet to communicate with others. Some critics also believed that there are distinct lines between poor and affluent schools. The article stated that the National Center for Education Statistics reports that there are virtually no differences in Internet access between poor schools and wealthier schools any more, as Internet access has steadily been increasing in public schools over time (Fox, 2005). The educational researchers continue to argue if technology should be intergrated into schools the world around them in turning into a technology based society.
I believe we should intergrate technology into the classrooms. Before we begin mass reform we should consider all the factors that will create best practices for interrogation. Some of these include:

1. Creating an effective plan for placing technology into the schools (eg. Purpose)
2. Train teachers on best practices and computer skills
3. Keep technology up to date and maintained.

Technology: Are We Getting are Moneys Worth?

The government wants to know if they are spending the tax payers money wisely because they have spent more than $66 billion in school technology (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory, 2006). Of course this price tag is very hard to justify when experts are saying that the students from the United States are unprepared to join the work force because they lack critical thinking skills and unable to problem solve. However, if we look at the larger picture, it has been 10 years or less since we started placing technology into the schools and an even shorter time creating standards for technology, which most teachers are unfamiliar with or are unable to incorporate into their lessons because they lack the training. Why technology, why not another tool to teach students how to think critically and problem solve? The answer is simple, most of this generation has grown up with technology at their finger tips (North Central Regional Educational Laboratory, 2006) and most employers expect there labor force to have some knowledge on how to use it. The educational system must re-exam how technology is being used. It must come up with a plan of action and then execute it to the best of their ability never forgetting to re-evaluated. Teachers must be trained on the best practices. This can not be a one time training but often, so that teachers are comfortable using it in their classrooms on a daily basis. Technology must be made current in many schools especially urban, rural, and low SES. Only than will be able to figure out of the $66 billion price tag was worth it. In my opinion a good education is priceless.

Technology Can Help Students Learn Math

I really enjoyed these articles and found myself reading most of it. And for me that is saying a lot because I dislike reading! I found myself taking notes and e-mailing the link to former colleagues. I do believe that technology can be a useful tool to teach curriculum, motivate students, and develop critical thinking skills. There are problems that need to be addressed, as the article stated teachers need to be knowledgeable (not only on how to navigate the internet links that are valuable to them, but also how best to use it with standard based instruction), administration needs to support it, students need access to up to date software/hardware, software that gives students/teachers feed back on their performance, and finally applications that adjust problems/tasks to maximize students' experience of success. I feel sometimes like technology has a square wheel and we are trying to make it roll like a round one. But I believe that education and knowledge are our best tools in turning that square wheel into a round one.

Teach Me

The second internet reading was very interesting, it follows the old proverb, "Give me a fish and I will eat today, but teach me to fish, and I will never eat tomorrow". They are using it with technology. I agree that students today have a better advantages and more information at their finger tips. However, basic are basic no matter how they are presented to you or how they are taught. I guess what I am trying to say is that technology is here to stay and we are all grateful for that, but students still need to learn how to read, write, and do math. The internet is still full of hidden dangers for childern and if teacher want to use it, they must take curtain precautions to make sure their students are safe. Not to motion all the time that can be wasted in front of the computer not really doing a thing. I don't know about you but I can spend hours in front of the computer and not get anything done.
These articles could be used to send to parents or colleagues who are interested in reading articles about how to use computers in the classroom. Computers can be used for so much more now a days and should be a tool that teacher use, but remember it is just a tool.

Standards for Math, Science, and Technology

The first reading was mostly a history or back ground information on the creations of standards for math, science, and technology. It was very cut and dry, therefore, I don't believe using it in the classroom would be necessary. However, the second reading (from New Jersey) was more reader and user friendly. It gave not only educators some quick project ideas but it also gave resources to find information on the national standards and how to teach them. I also gave parents an opportunity to be involved in their children's education. I would use this as a guide for parents and students.

We must also realize that the standards must be used everyday for every subject. They are frameworks to be built upon so that all other standards can be expanded, an example of this is most student find it difficult to understand multiplication without some knowledge or understanding of addition. The delivery of that information is the important part of standards. We must understand our students and teach to their cognitive abilities. Throwing the standards and assignment to students does not mean they will understand what it is they are learning nor will retention take place. The goal in having standards in education is that all students have the same basic knowledge.

What is Constructivism and WebQuest?

What is constructivism and WebQest?

Constructivism is helping guide students to understanding, what is being taught or being understood. It is a belief that students (people) learn by using prior knowledge that is understood and can be explained. The new idea or concept is molded into the prior knowledge to make sense of it and understand it.
Webquest is learning web site that helps students be more interactive with their learning by creating a short or long term project on a WebQuest page.

As a teacher I can use this knowledge and create more life experiences or create questions, which lead students to leak new knowledge to create understanding. Creating an interesting WebQuest can also engages the student's multiple intelligences. I can have students work in groups to work collaboratively. In this way, students have not only their experiences to use but also those of their peers. If students are to work on their own let them use any resources available to him/her.

hi this is a test.