Culminating Statement

Finally winter break is around the corner, but before the semester can be over, students are in a mad dash to complete assignments that have piled up and exams to cram for. While I have seen some of the cool things technology can do in regards to and how applicable it is to education, it can be a very time consuming process. As far as my comfort level goes, I prefer it when projects can be done using simple programs such as Word and PowerPoint and even Webquest. Things can get tricky pretty quickly when scanners, microphones, cameras, etc are all thrown into the mix with a computer. I have to say that I definitely prefer simplicity when it comes to technology in the classroom, but knowing how to use such programs is certainly beneficial. As I am a history student and my end goal is becoming a librarian, a statement I could use on an interview regarding technology, education, and the classroom could go something like this: As technology increases the ways in which educational content can be conveyed and incorporated into a classroom setting, what remains most important is the learner. I understand that students having different ways in which they learn best (visual, auditory) and being well versed in technology means being able to provide multiple formats for student success and participation. At the core of all this, though, is the content absorbed and using technology to facilitate, not overshadow, learning.

Insights

As technology’s role increases in everyday life so does it the classroom setting. It seems now that every teacher is obligated to try and keep pace with modern technology and utilize it in classrooms. While computers can create visually appealing ways to convey information, it is important to remember that it is really the content of what students should learn and retain that remain the central aspect. Programs such as PowerPoint can really aid a lecture by having images that supplement key text listed on a slide as well as having a ready lesson plan to follow. Through the Internet and use of sites such as del.icio.us, lessons can be made that offer variety from teachers outside whatever locality one teaches in. Still, for me, technology, while certainly having its benefits when working smoothly and properly, still poses a problem with my comfort level. It seems I spend more time dealing with computer problems, even when using simple programs, with errors that pop up consistently/continually, and has so far only reinforced my notion of not being overly dependent on computers that always seem to come ready with unexpected errors that arise at the least opportune moment (especially when standing at the front of a classroom with a presentation that won’t open), viruses, freezing up, and crashing, along with loss of saved information even when using campus computers. Still, with no locked in due dates for this class, I can go at a slower pace that does help contribute to my comfort level.

Role of Technology

Technology has a very integral role in the classroom today. It is important that both teachers and students alike have an understanding concerning computers and the software used as use of such technology becomes required knowledge. However, my own level of expertise in this area is rather limited as my comfort level with technology such as with computers is low. I rarely use the internet and have avoided the use of computers whenever possible as something always goes wrong when I try using it, especially with a MAC; therefore, I’m very slow with computers.