Blog Post #11

The interview with Ms. Cassidy, a first grade teacher, was very interesting. She starts by telling us that she first got involved with technology because five computers were given to her classroom. These computers were nothing like what we are used to using. They were Sun Ray computers and although they had access to the internet you were unable to download programs to them. She then searched the internet to find different ways to implement the use of these computers (i.e. blogs, webpages, videos, etc.) into her classroom with funding from the government and help from a developer. Ms. Cassidy had not been discouraged when it came to using technology in the classroom, but she had been the only one at the time trying. Along the way she had help and support from others. Some of those supporters were the parents and the technology coordinator.

The success of the use of technology in Ms. Cassidy’s classroom came because she was so passionate. She was excited to explore technology for her first graders to use. Ms. Cassidy also feels we will not be successful in educating students using the same methods as twenty years ago. The world has changed and we must change also, I agree with this. Ms. Cassidy’s approach to technology is basically explore it and do not be afraid to use it. That is a method in which I would conduct my classroom. As educators we have to keep up with new technology and use it if possible. There is nothing wrong with implementing technology into your classroom as long it is safe for your students.

It is always important to protect your students. Some parents or administrators might question this. If this was to happen I would ensure them that my students are safe by showing them some of the rules and guidelines that I give my students. Each student would have a set of rules to follow when using technology and if they did not follow these rules disciplinary actions would be taken. The first action taken would be they would not be able to use technology for a while and if it continues after that they would not be able to use it at all. I would also ensure them that the students are safe by consulting with the technology coordinator when using any technology. Each parent will also have a list of the technology coordinated things used in the classroom and no student would be able to use it before they signed off on it.

There would be many benefits to using Ms. Cassidy’s exploring and developing techniques. As a teacher we would always be up to date with things that our students use on a regular and using those things in a classroom setting would be exciting for students. Each student would no longer dread going to school, instead they would be excited and ready to go back. Since technology is ever-changing our students would be not only learning but advancing beyond belief. No teacher should deprive their students of the use of technology in the classroom because they aren’t familiar with it. We are responsible for exploring new things for our students to enhance their learning experience. In my classroom there would be no limits and every student would be encouraged to excel.