Educational Computer Software

From a student's perspective, I believe that a good integration of all three methods - drill/tutoring; teacher-directed inquiry; and constructivist, student-directed inquiry, would make for an overall good school year experience. I as a student, appreciate the change and the various ways of being able to learn the material. Having different methods, allows students to take note as to which method best works for them and to consider why others do not work as favorable.

Since I haven't made it to being an actual teacher just yet, I'm not sure if it is feasible to assume that as a teacher, I would see myself using each method at least once throughout the school-year.

- I would use the drill/tutoring method if I was trying to teach my students spelling or perhaps their multiplication table, etc. I personally used that method when I was learning the multiplication table and I found it to be a tremendous help. It allowed me to focus as well as test my own knowledge and notice which area I needed help in.

- I would use the teacher-directed inquiry perhaps if I was walking my students through a science project or an arts & crafts activity because I would be able to instruct them step by step and direct them through to obtain an final project. I believe this method would also assist me when teaching them mathematics, such as long division. At certain times, I do believe guidance and direction can assist students; however, knowing when to let them learn on their own is also key. It's important to ensure that the students are given just the right amount of direction before having them work on their own.

- Which brings me to the the third method constructivist, student-directed inquiry. This would be useful to me in my classroom setting because I would hopefully be able to have students reach their zone of proximal development. I could use this method when having them learn the states and work in teams to figure out which states go where on a map. The students will enjoy working upon their own direction if given the appropriate tools.

I would also, definitely incorporate technological tools such as computers, laptops, smartboards, etc. in order to enhance each of the methods.

At this point, I don't exactly gravitate to one particular method versus another because I would really like to initially at minimal test each method out on my classroom to see what works best and possibly conclude why the other method(s) may not. I don't want to limit my options just yet without actually seeing them in action.

A Kaiser Family Foundation Study

Many thoughts come to mind after reviewing the study. One of many is - how do we all not have horrible eyesight???? I imagine after exposing our eyesight to so much constant technology it would deteriorate our vision. The way these 8-18 year olds are increasing their daily usage of technology, they may all be in need of glasses at about early 30s.

In regards to the implications technology may have for education in general, my thoughts are as follows:

- There is absolutely no escaping technology. It is rapidly growing and expanding and it is better to be a part of the movement than to be left behind. I find that technology can be an asset in the educational world. Technology can provide more visuals for students and it is also something they can relate to, since they are constantly in some way, shape, or form connected to any or many forms of technology daily (and by the minute). If students can relate to what is being taught to them, then I believe they will exhibit more interest in the subject. As the study demonstrates, children between 8-18 are quite comfortable with a variety of technological forms. In order to grasp their attention and most importantly - maintain that attention, teachers need to be able to relate to them. Technology provides teachers with that tool in order to gap any potential bridge.

- In regards to my teaching in particular, I plan to definitely use technology to my advantage. I believe that it can make my job a little easier, more organized, and exciting with the use of technology. I believe that as the study demonstrates, the increasing usage of technology will only continue to increase more each year going forward. I view technology as a positive tool in my future teaching career.