I don't know if I am alone on this but I am not completely on board with the idea that we can use technology to motivate out reluctand and/or struggling readers. My students are not 'children of technology'. Yes they can text, send music and pictures and of course... facebook! But beyond that the world wide web is a place not familiar to them. I am not for one minute saying that I will never use what we have learnt in this course or that my students will never understand any of this. I'm just thinking that computer literacy and use of Web 2.0 tools and software should be taught intentionally. I plan to suggest to my principal that such a course be implemented for both teachers and students. The use of computers and the practice of using these technologies must become part of our school culture.
This would of course mean that basic infrastructure and utilities MUST be in place!! The home and community must also support this culture. Students must be able to practice what they have learnt and complete assignments outside of the classroom and school. I don't mean to be a 'Party-Popper' but this is my reality (the reality of my students). I honestly don't see myself using any of the wonderful things I have learnt over the last couple of months within the next academic year. I have. however, already started preparing activities based on the syllabus and text. A fun activity which is usually dampened by reality. So, do I write a letter to the Minister of Education saying that they need to upgrade the school to meet my training? or Do I let all that I have learnt just take up space in my head?
Hi, your kids may not see your students as 'children of technology' but they really are. despite the fact that they seem solely attracted to the music downloads, facebook etc. this is the perfect opportunity for you to expose them to the rest of it.So let them create an e book with Justin Beiber( I know, Justin who?)lyrics and music. What about a photostory of their favourite actors along with a short biography. It's amazing how much infomation they have on such topics. I google the things they talk about so that I can join in their conversation ( and not sound dense) and turn that into the lesson.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you that ICT needs to become part of our school culture and I wish you best of luck with the letter to the Ministry of Education. Keep hope alive!
Hi,in the response posted above there were two errors. Could it be that it's now after midnight and I'm really tired?
ReplyDeleteThe opening sentence should read 'you...' instead of 'your kids...' and 'despite'should begin with a capital 'D'
My apologies.
I do believe that your students are “children of technology”. Their world is one in which they interface with the technology on a daily basis. The challenges associated with using the technology for educational puposes could be alleviated by developmental training in web .20 for both students and teachers. Could you imagine the possibilities of each school child having access to a computer with internet connection? How motivating it could be for our students?
ReplyDeleteHi,
ReplyDeleteOur education system is far from perfect. Some of our children live under stressful conditions.They may all not be" children of technology," but we must give them the opportunity. There must be one of the new literacies that you may be able to demonstrate to staff at one of your Staff meetings and if not, will you be able to create and use an e-book with your class on one of their interests?
Children love using the computer and as educators, we need to capitalize on this interest.